Egg Prices Crack the Economy: A Growing Concern for Americans

Key Takeaways:

• Egg prices have skyrocketed, causing frustration for many Americans.
• President Trump promised to lower grocery prices, including eggs, but challenges like bird flu have made it difficult.
• Restaurants and stores are struggling to keep up with the rising costs.
• The White House is rolling out a plan to stabilize egg prices, but experts say it may not be enough.
• High egg prices are hitting households hard, especially since eggs are a staple in many diets.

The Rising Cost of Eggs: A Hot Topic in the Economy

For millions of Americans, eggs are a simple, affordable staple. But lately, the price of eggs has become a major headache. According to CNN’s Harry Enten, egg prices have reached record highs, and people are noticing. In fact, during the 2024 election, the rising cost of groceries, including eggs, played a big role in President Trump’s victory.

Why? Because inflation is a problem everyone deals with daily. Whether it’s a carton of eggs or a gallon of milk, prices keep going up. President Trump campaigned on promises to lower these costs, even saying he would act on “Day One.” But so far, egg prices have only gotten worse.

Why Are Eggs So Expensive Now?

So, why are eggs so expensive? A few big factors are driving up the cost:

1. Bird Flu Outbreaks: Diseases like bird flu have hit chicken flocks hard, reducing the number of eggs available.
2. Supply and Demand: With fewer eggs and high demand, prices naturally go up.
3. Inflation: Like many other foods, eggs are feeling the pinch of inflation.
4. Production Costs: Farmers are paying more for feed and energy, which makes eggs more expensive to produce.

These challenges have pushed egg prices to record levels. In January, a dozen eggs hit an all-time high of nearly $5. Experts warn prices could rise another 40% this year.

The Impact on Everyday People

High egg prices are not just a minor inconvenience. For many families, eggs are a budget-friendly protein. Now, that affordability is disappearing.

• Restaurants Are Charging More: Some places are adding extra fees for eggs in dishes like breakfast sandwiches.
• Stores Are Selling Eggs Individually: Instead of selling by the dozen, some stores are selling eggs one by one to make them more affordable.

This shift shows just how much people are struggling to afford something as simple as eggs.

The White House’s Plan to Fix the Problem

The Biden administration is aware of the issue. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins recently announced a five-point plan to stabilize the egg market over the next three months. The plan aims to boost supply and reduce costs.

But experts like Harry Enten doubt it will be enough. “When 80% of Americans eat eggs at least once a week, this is a kriz that hits close to home,” he said. “People elected President Trump to lower prices, and so far, they don’t feel like he’s delivered.”

What Do Americans Think?

Polls show that 62% of Americans believe President Trump hasn’t done enough to lower the cost of everyday items. Eggs are a big part of that frustration.

Enten visited a bodega in New York City and saw the high prices firsthand. “Eggs are out of control,” he said. “With prices already up 95% from last year, people are feeling the pain.”

For many, eggs are more than just a food item—they’re a symbol of how the economy is affecting their wallets.

The Bigger Picture

While eggs might seem like a small thing, they represent a larger issue. Unlike the stock market, which only 60% of Americans invest in, eggs are something everyone buys.

“When people talk about the economy, they’re often talking about how it affects their daily lives,” Enten said. “Eggs are a perfect example. They’re in almost every refrigerator, and their prices are something people notice every time they shop.”

Rising egg prices are a reminder that inflation is still a major challenge for many families.

What’s Next?

The White House’s plan to stabilize egg prices is a step in the right direction, but it may take time to see results. In the meantime, families and businesses are finding creative ways to cope with the high costs.

For now, one thing is clear: Eggs have become a key issue in the conversation about the economy. As prices continue to rise, Americans will be watching closely to see if the administration can deliver on its promises.