The latest monthly consumer price index showed that the average price of a dozen Grade A eggs in U.S. cities reached $4.95 in January.
Summary
Egg prices in the U.S. have reached a record high of $4.95 per dozen amid a severe bird flu outbreak that has led to the culling of millions of egg-laying chickens.
The shortage is compounded by rising feed, fuel, and labor costs, as well as increased demand and stricter cage-free regulations in several states.
Consumers face empty shelves, surcharges, and limited availability, with some areas pricing cartons at $10 or more.
Prices are expected to continue rising, especially with Easter demand.
Just yesterday my friend texted that his local bodega in the Bronx is selling $1 loosies or $12/dozen. Fucking egg loosies. What’s next? Egg dealers on Gun Hill?
Bodegas are small businesses that are usually very entrenched in the community. This isn’t extortion. It’s a way to make a few eggs affordable. My criticism is of the need for the loosies in the first place.
It’s so common for tourists to see higher prices than they’re used to and assume the place is a rip off. They have no idea how insane the rent for a tiny shop can be in NYC. Meanwhile, they’ll have no problem dropping $30 for a ‘value meal’ in Times Square.
I agree with your criticism for the need loosies In the first place, But there has been a rising trend where Bodegas In communities, like the Bronx, have taken advantage of an influx of higher earners. If they raise the price for them, they raise the price for all. This is just another form of hyper focused capitalism.
The irony of that guy recognizing that the only war is the class war and then going after …checks notes… poor immigrants trying to make a living in retail.
Here. I found an article on it. You won’t hear of a corporate manager making the same considerations.
Radhames Rodriguez, owner of Pamela's Green Deli in the Bronx's Morrisania section, said the idea of selling loose eggs came to him after seeing customers leaving full cartons on the counter because they couldn't afford it.
Hoping to help customers in the community, Rodriguez now sells three eggs for $2.99, which he says is a better than paying at least $12 for one carton.
I don’t think that works as well on people as you might think. Perhaps you’re the one who has remained ignorant by dismissing the opinions of others who may have very convincing arguments.
It’s because people can’t afford the whole thing, so they charge a premium for a single. If they gave a shit they’d just charge 1/12th of a carton of eggs, instead of gouging poor people. 17¢ might sound like a ridiculous amount to complain about to you and I, but if a person cannot afford a $10 carton, I’m guessing that money matters.