Why Are Egg Prices Soaring in Washington State?
The rising egg prices in Washington State have become a major challenge for restaurants, especially breakfast eateries. These businesses are struggling to balance costs and maintain menu prices as egg costs continue to rise. Here’s everything you need to know about this pressing issue.
Rising Egg Prices in Washington Restaurants: A Big Problem
How Much Have Egg Prices Increased?
The price of eggs has skyrocketed, with reports showing a dramatic increase from $15 to $30 per carton, sometimes reaching a staggering $60 during peak demand periods. Recent supply chain disruptions and avian flu outbreaks are among the primary reasons for this surge. For context, some restaurants now pay over $130 per carton, compared to just $15 a few years ago.
Why Is the Supply Chain Struggling?
Restaurants report difficulty sourcing eggs at reasonable prices. The USDA’s latest findings indicate that wholesale egg prices range between $5.75 and $9 per dozen across the U.S. Washington, in particular, faces higher prices due to strict cage-free egg production laws.
Impact on Restaurants and Their Menus
To adapt, restaurant owners are revising their menus by adding egg-free options or using alternative proteins. One breakfast restaurant shared that their weekly egg expenses jumped by 118%, with the cost per egg increasing from 33 cents to 72 cents. Menu adjustments aim to preserve affordability for customers while managing the rising operational costs.
Reasons Behind the Rising Egg Prices
Avian Flu Outbreaks
The avian flu is a leading cause of egg price inflation. Over 130 million birds have been affected since early 2022, causing a significant drop in egg production. The culling of infected flocks reduces supply, driving up costs further.
Cage-Free Production Laws
Washington’s cage-free regulations mandate better living conditions for hens, increasing production costs. These laws have led to a 56% reduction in cage-free flocks in 2024, intensifying the scarcity of eggs.
Consumer Demand Remains High
Despite higher prices, eggs remain a staple food item. Strong consumer demand, coupled with limited supply, continues to push prices upward. Eggs’ nutritional value makes them a non-negotiable item for many households and businesses.
What’s Next for Washington Restaurants?
Experts predict that high egg prices may persist, especially if avian flu outbreaks continue. Even if the virus subsides, general inflation suggests that prices won’t return to pre-crisis levels anytime soon.
Coping Strategies for Restaurants
Many restaurants are exploring innovative solutions to counter the rising costs. Adjustments include:
- Incorporating egg-free dishes into menus.
- Experimenting with alternative proteins.
- Sourcing from new suppliers to secure better pricing.
One local restaurant shared that finding affordable eggs has become a daily struggle, with owners driving around the region in search of reasonable deals.
For more insights on how to manage restaurant challenges during this egg price crisis, visit the USDA’s official site.