South Carolina Eggs

FAQs

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Where does South Carolina get their eggs from?

• Local South Carolina Farms & Regional Producers
• Large-Scale Commercial Farms
• Integrated Poultry Companies
• Specialty and Organic Eggs
• Wholesalers and Distributors
• Neighboring States

The diverse sources allow South Carolina to maintain a steady supply of eggs to meet the needs of its population. The state’s specific regulations related to egg production, as outlined by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, influence how eggs are sourced and produced to meet state and federal standards. To learn more, contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

Top 5 Egg Consuming Cities in South Carolina

There isn’t a specific ranking readily available that lists the top egg-eating cities in South Carolina. However, cities with larger populations, high demand for food services, and a significant number of restaurants and food establishments are likely to consume more eggs. Based on population size and economic activities, the following cities are likely to be the top egg-consuming cities in South Carolina:

1. Columbia

• As the largest city and the state capital, Columbia has a significant food service industry, including restaurants, hotels, and institutions such as the University of South Carolina. These factors make Columbia the top consumer of eggs in the state.

2. Charleston

• Charleston is a major tourist destination with a vibrant restaurant and hospitality industry, contributing to high egg consumption. The city’s food scene, hotels, and events drive demand for eggs in both residential and commercial settings.

3. North Charleston

• As one of the largest cities in South Carolina, North Charleston has a growing population and numerous food service establishments, including restaurants and hotels, making it a major consumer of eggs.

4. Mount Pleasant

• Mount Pleasant, a suburb of Charleston, has a rapidly growing population and an active food service sector, including restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores, which contribute to high egg consumption.

5. Greenville

• Greenville is a rapidly growing city with a bustling food scene, including restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores. Its growing population and vibrant downtown area contribute to significant egg consumption.

Looking for reliable, high-quality wholesale egg supply in your city? Contact Eggs Unlimited today for competitive pricing, seamless distribution, and expert logistics support to meet all your egg needs.

Which county in South Carolina produces the largest number of eggs?

Newberry County is the largest egg-producing county in South Carolina. The state’s egg industry averages the production of over 68 million dozens of eggs annually, and Newberry County plays a key role in this production, followed closely by other counties like Kershaw, Darlington, Saluda, and Lexington. These counties collectively contribute to South Carolina’s ranking as 17th in the nation for egg production.

The dominance of Newberry County in egg production can be attributed to its well-established poultry farms, which are also supported by favorable agricultural conditions across the state​.

What makes eggs from South Carolina compliant?

Eggs from South Carolina are compliant with various regulations and standards set at both federal and state levels, which ensure the quality, safety, and proper handling of the eggs. Key factors that contribute to compliance include:

1. USDA Grading and Inspection

• The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspects and grades eggs based on quality standards. These inspections ensure that eggs meet strict criteria for cleanliness, shell integrity, and internal quality. South Carolina’s eggs that meet these standards carry USDA grading marks such as Grade AA, A, or B.

2. Food Safety and Egg Handling Laws

• Compliance with the Egg Products Inspection Act (EPIA) is mandatory. This federal law regulates the processing, labeling, and inspection of eggs to ensure they are safe for human consumption. It mandates that eggs sold in interstate commerce be pasteurized, cleaned, and properly labeled.
• Additionally, producers must follow FDA guidelines under the Egg Safety Rule, which requires farms to implement measures to prevent contamination, especially by Salmonella Enteritidis, a common egg-borne bacteria.

3. Avian Health Regulations

• South Carolina’s eggs are produced under stringent guidelines that include measures to prevent and manage outbreaks of diseases like Avian Influenza. Flock health is monitored through programs like the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP), which certifies that eggs are produced under disease-free conditions.

4. Cage-Free and Organic Certifications

• Many egg producers in South Carolina follow specific standards for cage-free or organic egg production. These certifications ensure that eggs come from hens raised in environments meeting certain welfare and dietary requirements, complying with consumer preferences and state regulations.

5. Environmental and Welfare Compliance

• In response to consumer and regulatory demands, producers may also adhere to guidelines aimed at reducing environmental impacts and improving animal welfare. This can include compliance with sustainability goals or cage-free mandates, as seen in other states like California. South Carolina producers may implement similar practices to meet these evolving standards.

It’s important to note that eggs produced in South Carolina are also subject to federal regulations set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These federal regulations, which cover issues like food safety, are applicable to all eggs sold in the United States.

To ensure that eggs are “South Carolina compliant,” producers and distributors must adhere to these regulations and standards. Consumers can look for the required labeling and packaging information to help determine the quality and safety of the eggs they purchase. To Learn more contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

Who is the largest supplier of eggs in South Carolina?

The egg industry is served by multiple large egg producers and distributors within the state. The South Carolina egg market is diverse, with various suppliers and brands competing. Eggs Unlimited is one of the largest egg suppliers and has one of the largest networks in the industry. 

For more information contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com

How much do eggs cost in South Carolina?

The cost of eggs in South Carolina, like in other places, can vary based on several factors, including the type of eggs (conventional, cage-free, organic, free-range, etc.), the brand, the store, the carton sizing, and the region within South Carolina . Common carton sizing in the state:

• A dozen eggs (12 eggs) large white or brown eggs typically in most areas of South Carolina .
• 18-count carton of large white or brown eggs..
• 15 dozen eggs (180 eggs) in South Carolina, for large white or brown eggs
• 30 dozen eggs (360 eggs) in South Carolina, for large white or brown eggs

Prices can change over time, and regional variations can be significant. To get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for eggs in South Carolina, I recommend contacting wholesale suppliers, egg distributors, or checking with local stores or online retailers for bulk purchasing options. Eggs Unlimited can directly put you in touch with these sources for bulk purchasing needs. eusales@eggsunlimited.com  

How many eggs are in case?

The number of eggs in a case can vary depending on the type and size of the eggs, as well as the packaging standards of the producer or distributor. The most common case sizes for chicken eggs in the United States are:

• 5-Dozen Case: There are 5 dozen (60 eggs) in a 5-dozen case.
• 10-Dozen Case: While less common, you might also find 10-dozen cases, which contain 120 eggs.
• 15-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 15 dozen or 180 eggs. in a 15-dozen case.
• 30-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 30 dozen or 360 eggs. in a 30-dozen case.

Contact Eggs Unlimited today! eusales@eggsunlimited.com

How to sell commercial eggs in South Carolina? 

Selling eggs commercially in Minnesota involves a more structured and regulated process, especially if you plan to sell eggs to grocery stores, restaurants, or other commercial entities.

Here are 11 steps to sell eggs commercially in South Carolina:

1. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

• South Carolina Egg License: You must obtain an Egg Dealer License from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) if you are selling eggs to retailers, restaurants, or other commercial outlets. This applies whether you are producing or distributing eggs.
• Local Permits: Depending on where and how you sell eggs (e.g., farmers’ markets, local retail), you may need additional permits from your local city or county. You may also need a business license or food vendor permit if you are selling eggs directly to consumers.

2. Comply with Federal and State Egg Regulations

• FDA Egg Safety Rule: South Carolina follows the FDA’s Egg Safety Rule, designed to prevent Salmonella Enteritidis contamination. This applies to producers with more than 3,000 laying hens. The rule includes:
  • Refrigeration: Eggs must be refrigerated at 45°F or below within 36 hours of being laid and remain at that temperature during transportation and sale.
  • Sanitation: Egg production facilities must follow sanitation guidelines, including regular cleaning and testing for Salmonella.
  • Environmental Testing: Larger producers are required to conduct environmental testing to ensure that facilities are free from Salmonella.
• USDA Grading and Inspection: While grading is not required, many commercial eggs are graded to USDA standards. USDA grading categories include AA, A, and B, which are based on egg quality, such as the condition of the shell, yolk, and white. Eggs sold across state lines must be graded if they are part of interstate commerce.
• South Carolina Egg Law: The South Carolina Egg Law requires:
  • Proper labeling of eggs with the name and address of the producer or packer.
  • Grade and size of the eggs (e.g., Grade A Large).
  • A sell-by date or expiration date on the egg cartons to ensure freshness.
  • Refrigeration requirements to maintain egg quality and safety during sale and transportation.

3. Egg Storage and Transportation

• Refrigeration Requirements: Eggs must be stored at or below 45°F at all times. This includes during collection, transportation, and sale. Refrigeration prevents spoilage and ensures the safety of the eggs.
• Transportation Standards: Eggs must be transported in clean, refrigerated vehicles that maintain the proper temperature to ensure food safety. This is particularly important when moving eggs from the farm to retailers or distributors.

4. Packaging and Labeling

• Grading and Sorting: Eggs should be sorted and graded according to USDA or state standards. Grading ensures that eggs meet quality standards for shell condition, yolk firmness, and freshness.
• Labeling Requirements: Egg cartons must be labeled with:
  • Producer’s or packer’s name and address.
  • Grade (AA, A, or B) and size (e.g., large, extra-large).
  • Sell-by date or expiration date.
  • Storage instructions to keep the eggs refrigerated.
  • If selling specialty eggs, such as organic, cage-free, or free-range, the labeling must accurately reflect these claims according to certification standards.

5. Market and Distribution Channels

• Retail Sales: Eggs can be sold through grocery stores, supermarkets, and local shops. Establishing relationships with local retailers is important for getting your eggs into stores. You may also work with local distributors who help transport and sell eggs to retailers.
• Wholesale Sales: You can also sell eggs to restaurants, hotels, and food service companies. Wholesale contracts can provide steady, consistent demand for your eggs.
• Farmers’ Markets and Direct Sales: Smaller producers often sell eggs directly to consumers at farmers’ markets or through local delivery. Even when selling directly, eggs must meet all labeling, grading, and refrigeration requirements.

6. Organic, Cage-Free, and Specialty Egg Compliance

• Cage-Free and Free-Range Requirements: If you produce cage-free or free-range eggs, you must meet specific animal welfare standards, which often require the hens to be able to roam freely or have access to the outdoors.
• Organic Certification: To sell organic eggs, the hens must be fed organic feed and raised under organic farming practices. You need to be certified by a USDA-accredited certifier to label your eggs as organic.

7. Biosecurity and Health Standards

• Biosecurity Measures: South Carolina egg producers must follow biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of diseases like Avian Influenza (AI). This includes controlling farm access, maintaining sanitary conditions, and monitoring flock health regularly.
• Inspections by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA): Be prepared for inspections by SCDA to ensure that your farm or processing facilities are compliant with safety and sanitation regulations. The SCDA also oversees labeling and packaging compliance.

8. Set Competitive Pricing and Contracts

• Pricing Strategy: Your pricing should be based on production costs, market demand, and current egg prices in South Carolina. Monitor fluctuations in egg prices due to changes in supply, holidays, or increased demand for organic or specialty eggs.
• Contracts with Buyers: Establish contracts with retailers, wholesalers, or food service providers to ensure a steady supply of eggs. Long-term contracts can provide financial stability and help you plan your production schedule.

9. Promote and Brand Your Eggs

• Marketing and Branding: Promote your eggs as fresh, local, and high-quality. If you’re selling specialty eggs such as organic, cage-free, or free-range, emphasize these qualities in your marketing to appeal to health-conscious consumers.
• Local Appeal: Emphasizing that your eggs are produced locally can attract customers who prefer to buy locally sourced food, particularly at farmers’ markets and smaller retail outlets.

10. Monitor Market Trends

• Stay Informed: Keep track of market trends in egg consumption and pricing in South Carolina and nationally. This includes staying updated on consumer preferences for organic, cage-free, or free-range eggs and any regulatory changes.

11. Consult an Industry Expert:

 Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading suppliers of eggs in South Carolina. Contact us today and we can help you every step of the way! https://www.eggsunlimited.com/contact/ 

Selling eggs commercially in South Carolina requires a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, food safety, and the commercial distribution process. It’s advisable to work closely with relevant government agencies and seek expert advice to ensure your commercial egg business operates legally and successfully. Contact Eggs Unlimited today! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

South Carolina EGG CERTIFICATIONS

The United Egg Producers (UEP) has developed guidelines for conventional hen housing. To qualify as UEP-certified, processors are subject to site visits, where they must verify that their hens meet UEP guidance. Eggs from certified farms may have a UEP label on their packaging. Eggs Unlimited offers UEP-certified products, along with USDA-certified conventional eggs and non-UEP production.

WHY EGGS UNLIMITED?

Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading global suppliers of conventional eggs. We have the experience and market knowledge to help save our customers time and money. We work with some of the largest egg producers, retailers, distributors, foodservice organizations, QSRs, and processors in the US and around the world. They trust us to provide competitive prices and take care of logistics from pickup to delivery. 

We act as an extension of our customers’ procurement or sales teams, creating value, providing solutions, and delivering on time and in full. The company is built on family values, and we strive to work harder than anyone in the industry to service the needs of our customers.

LET’S DISCUSS YOUR LOCAL South Carolina EGG STRATEGY!

Get in touch with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to discover all your conventional egg options. 

Call: 888-554-3977

E-mail: eusales@eggsunlimited.com.