Shell eggs — whether fresh, thermally processed, or preserved by oiling or pickling — are subject to USDA FSIS jurisdiction when imported as table eggs or processed egg products, and USDA APHIS regulations govern any phytosanitary or animal-health concerns related to avian disease risk at the border. The US market for imported shell eggs is heavily influenced by domestic flock conditions, particularly outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which can simultaneously reduce domestic supply and restrict eligible foreign sources. Preserved and cooked shell eggs (such as century eggs or salted eggs) represent a distinct specialty segment serving Asian-American retail and foodservice channels. Importers should verify that the country of origin maintains FSIS-approved establishment status and is not subject to HPAI-related import restrictions at the time of shipment.

AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.