MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- About two million eggs will be delivered to Wisconsin food banks and community groups, according to the state Department of Justice (DOJ), as part of a settlement following allegations against some of the nation's largest egg producers. 

Officials say a multistate investigation revealed three companies -- Cal-Maine Foods, Versova/Centrum, and Hickman's -- allegedly colluded behind the scenes from approximately June 2022-March 2025, to raise prices for retailers and consumers throughout the country. 

The Wisconsin DOJ and a coalition secured 53 million eggs for consumers nationwide through a settlement, and $3.3 million to the states. The companies must also end the alleged illegal activity, implement compliance measures, and cooperate with state oversight. 

“Companies must not make goods less affordable by improperly manipulating prices,” said AG Kaul. “There must be accountability for that kind of conduct.”

The DOJ says the 53 million donated eggs will be provided to food banks and nonprofits across participating states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, and Vermont.