The U.S. Justice Department and a coalition of 17 states have reached a settlement with three of the country's major egg producers following an investigation into alleged manipulation of egg prices. The companies involved in the agreement are Cal-Maine Foods, Versova, and Hickman's Egg Ranch.
The antitrust investigation, as reported by the New York state attorney general's office, focused on alleged illegal price coordination during a period when egg prices reached record highs.
As part of the resolution, the producers will be required to pay a $3.3 million financial penalty. Additionally, the companies agreed to provide 53 million eggs to food banks.