Why are eggs so expensive? Bronx shop offers affordable alternative

A small convenience store in the Bronx, New York, is selling loose eggs to customers struggling to afford a full carton. Pamela’s Green Deli, owned by Fernando Rodriguez, has started selling a trio of eggs for $2.99. He continues to offer a whole carton priced at $12.

Rodriguez said that customers wouldn’t be able to afford other necessities if they had to buy an entire carton. “If they are spending $12 on one dozen eggs, how are they going to get other essentials like bread, milk, or butter?” he told the New York Post.

Customers welcome the change, but challenges remain

Despite this effort, the move has only provided relief. Rodriguez estimated that about one-third of his customers have opted to buy loose eggs, most of whom are low-income earners.

Rodriguez, an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, said he drew inspiration from his home country, where shops commonly sell single eggs.

“We used to sell single eggs in the Dominican Republic,” he said. “I know how difficult it is for families to afford eggs and milk.”

More stores follow suit amid uncertain legality

The United Bodegas of America has reported that more local stores are adopting this practice to help customers cope with rising food prices.

However, the legality of selling loose eggs remains unclear. Industry sources suggest it falls into a grey area, as New York State law mandates that eggs must be sold in labeled packages displaying grade, count, and size. So far, authorities have not commented on this trend.

Why are egg prices so high?

Egg prices in the US have recently hit record highs due to a massive bird flu outbreak. The virus has affected nearly 158 million birds since its outbreak in 2022.

In March 2024, the virus spread to dairy cows, further worsening the situation. According to the US Department of Agriculture, over 23 million birds were culled in January alone to contain the spread.

Since egg farms house millions of birds, even a single infection can result in entire flocks being destroyed, causing severe supply shortages. The problem is even more pronounced in cage-free farms, which serve specialized markets. Egg prices in states that mandate cage-free farming are particularly high.

Other factors behind rising costs

Apart from the virus, higher biosecurity measures have increased the cost of egg production. Additionally, rising demand for eggs has further contributed to price hikes.