About a Third of Americans Have Stopped Buying Eggs Due to Rising Prices

Recent research has revealed that rising egg prices have led around a third of American consumers to cease their purchases of this breakfast staple. According to a study conducted by Clarify Capital, 34% of respondents indicated they have stopped buying eggs as costs have surged dramatically. The average price of a dozen eggs is now estimated at approximately £5.18, a stark increase compared to an average of £1.49 in 2018.

Price perceptions among consumers are troubling. Many shoppers now report viewing the average price of eggs as £7 per dozen. Alarmingly, individuals have expressed they may resume buying eggs only if prices return to £5 or lower. A significant 61% of the survey participants stated they are consuming fewer eggs due to escalating costs, while 44% noted a change in their cooking and baking habits, opting for less frequent use of eggs.

Illinois stands out with one of the most pronounced price increases, having experienced a staggering 1,048% jump from £0.42 to £4.82. This dramatic price fluctuation has not gone unnoticed; nearly 95% of Americans acknowledge the inflated egg prices, with panic-buying becoming a common sight in many grocery stores.

The surge in costs is primarily attributed to the ongoing spread of bird flu in the United States. Among the participants in the study, 67% blamed the outbreak for rising egg prices, while 31% believed that government regulations and policies have played a significant role in driving costs up. The issue has transcended mere economics to become a political discourse, as various politicians have seized on the frustration surrounding egg prices.

The increasing price of eggs has prompted the US to seek imports from other countries. However, attempts to alleviate the situation have met with challenges, amidst concerns over possible tariffs affecting international trade.