The bird flu has taken a massive hit on egg production in California, causing many grocery store patrons to be left staring at empty egg shelves.

California flocks have lost about two-thirds of egg-laying hens in the most recent bird flu outbreak and that means fewer cartons in stores at much higher prices, sometimes upwards of $8 a dozen.

When eggs are available, many are bypassing the hefty price tag and grabbing a few cartons to make sure they have enough for weekend pancakes or the cake they were planning to bake.

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But just exactly how long can you store eggs?

— In a refrigerator from three to five weeks, according to the USDA. The refrigerator should be set to 40 degrees F. Leave them in their carton in the coldest part of the fridge and not in the door, the agency recommends.

Can you keep eggs after the “sell-by” date?

— As long as the eggs are refrigerated they should be fine in the three-to-five week time period. But always purchase eggs before the “sell-by” or expiration date on the carton.

Experts expect the egg shortage to last at least several more weeks.

Bay City News contributed to this report