Bird flu egg limits makes hash out of Macca's breakfast

Mass egg shortages have forced McDonald's to shorten its breakfast hours as farmers across the country battle to stop the spread of bird flu.

The fast food giant confirmed on Tuesday that breakfast offerings will temporarily end at 10.30am, instead of midday.

"We are carefully managing supply of eggs due to the current industry challenges," a spokesperson said.

"We're continuing to work closely with our network of Aussie farmers, producers and suppliers as the industry comes together to manage this challenge."

All menu items, including those egg-based options, will remain available to customers throughout the shortened breakfast window.

The change comes as eight farms in Victoria, two in NSW and one in the ACT have been forced to close in a bid to stop the spread of avian flu.

More than one million chickens and ducks have been culled due to the outbreaks.

McDonald's fast-food rival, Hungry Jack's, gave no indication of looming restrictions, declaring it had enough cage-free eggs to deliver its breakfast menu for its normal hours.

"Hungry Jack's is working with its suppliers to meet customer demand," a spokeswoman said.

On Monday, the Melbourne Royal Show announced the postponement of its 2024 poultry competition because of the outbreaks.

In 2023, the competition involved more than 1200 chickens, ducks and turkeys.

"This decision is based on guidance from Agriculture Victoria in consultation with the Victorian Poultry Fanciers Association, and our commitment to prioritising the health and safety of the Victorian poultry industry and our exhibitors," a statement from organisers read.

"We look forward to welcoming the poultry community back when the Melbourne Royal poultry competition re-commences in the future."

Woolworths customers were last week limited to two cartons of eggs in NSW, ACT and Victoria as the outbreak stifles supplies.

Coles introduced a similar policy earlier in June.