Egg Prices Taking a Toll on NYC Food Vendors
Staple of New York City Breakfasts Affected by Rising Costs
A New York City breakfast staple is now being served up with a side order of financial reality. One operator of a Manhattan food cart said he’s never seen the cost of eggs spike so sharply.
"Eggs are golden," said Hakeem, whose food truck has been serving customers on a corner of Sixth Avenue in midtown for 25 years. "I’m trying to keep prices flat, even if it costs me. And I hope prices come down soon."
Rising Costs Affecting Local Businesses
Just a few blocks north, another food cart operator named Alejandra has had to raise the price of egg sandwiches by 50 cents. And she’s far from alone in doing so. As local businesses seek to keep prices down for as long as they can, a national chain has already made changes.
Waffle House Introduces New Fee
Waffle House, the popular 24-hour diner throughout the South, is now charging a special fee of 50 cents per egg. It comes as the National Restaurant Association says producer costs are up 134% year over year for eggs.
"That’s just too much for any restaurant to absorb in their narrow margins," said Michelle Korsmo, of the restaurant group.
Why Are Egg Prices So High?
The average price for a dozen eggs is now more than $5. So, why are egg prices so high? Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has affected more than 133 million egg-laying chickens since 2022. The USDA predicts egg prices will increase another 20% in 2025, warning that egg shortages could increase as bird flu spreads.
Conclusion
As the cost of eggs continues to rise, food vendors in New York City are feeling the pinch. With prices expected to increase even further, it’s clear that this is a crisis that won’t be resolved anytime soon. For Hakeem and other food cart operators, the future is uncertain, and the outlook for a low-cost breakfast is dimming.
FAQs
Q: What is causing the rise in egg prices?
A: Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has affected more than 133 million egg-laying chickens since 2022.
Q: How much are egg prices expected to increase in 2025?
A: The USDA predicts egg prices will increase another 20% in 2025, leading to egg shortages.
Q: What is being done to address the crisis?
A: Food cart operators like Hakeem are trying to keep prices flat, while others are raising prices to keep up with costs. Waffle House has introduced a special fee of 50 cents per egg.
Q: Will the crisis affect more than just food vendors?
A: Yes, the rising cost of eggs will affect consumers, restaurants, and the entire food industry.
