As bird flu continues to ravage poultry farms across the United States, egg prices in New York have surged to record highs, forcing residents to find creative ways to afford this essential kitchen staple.
For Crismerly Osorio Anderson, every grocery trip has become a budgeting challenge. The Bronx resident recently opted to buy three loose eggs in a plastic bag for $2.90 instead of purchasing a full carton.
“Because the box is very expensive… I will buy them this way,” said the 24-year-old, leaving a local bodega.
Avian Flu Crisis Drives Prices to Unprecedented Levels
The ongoing avian flu outbreak has led to the culling of 26 million birds nationwide, causing an acute shortage of eggs and driving prices higher. In New York City, the cost of a dozen eggs has surged to an average of $8.47, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) report released Thursday.
Some consumers have reported prices as high as $15 per dozen in certain stores, exacerbating financial struggles for low-income families in the city, where one in four residents lives below the poverty line.
Bodegas Resort to Selling ‘Single’ Eggs
In a bid to help customers cope, bodega owner Radhames Rodriguez, who has been in the business for nearly four decades, began selling eggs individually— a practice typically associated with cigarettes.
“It’s too expensive. I’ve never seen the price like this,” said Rodriguez, owner of Pamela’s Green Deli. Behind the counter, alongside cigarettes and candy, eggs are now sold one at a time.
Social Media Reacts as Free Egg Giveaways Draw Crowds
Viral videos on social media show New Yorkers setting up makeshift stands to sell eggs, while others document long lines at businesses offering free cartons.
“Egg prices are through the roof right now, so at a time like this, we felt it was our duty and responsibility to make eggs accessible,” said Abou Sow, owner of Prince Abou’s Butchery, which recently distributed free egg cartons to struggling families in Brooklyn.
Government Response: Imports and Billion-Dollar Investment
Egg prices have doubled across the U.S. in the past year, prompting Democrats to call for an inquiry into potential price gouging. The federal government has announced negotiations with international suppliers to import eggs and stabilize prices.
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump’s administration pledged up to $1 billion to address the crisis, aiming to boost domestic egg production and provide relief to consumers.
Rodriguez warns that the spike in egg prices is part of a broader trend affecting other essential goods. Avocados, for example, are now being sold in pre-wrapped plastic quarters due to rising costs.
“We’ve seen the price hike every other day,” he said. “The people are crying.”
Conclusion
As New Yorkers struggle with soaring egg prices, local businesses and government officials are scrambling to find solutions. Whether through individual egg sales, community giveaways, or federal intervention, the fight to make eggs affordable again is far from over.
