The cost of everything has increased in the past year. But the rise in egg prices has been particularly notable.
The average cost of a dozen commercially produced eggs grew by around 50% in the past year, compared to a 12% increase in price for chicken, and a 15% increase in milk prices.
In the Adirondacks, a dozen of commercial conventionally raised eggs could reliably be purchased for around $3 now costs closer to $5-6.
There are several reasons why eggs specifically have been impacted, including a national outbreak of avian flu among commercial poultry facilities that began in March of 2022.
According to the CDC, “Since early 2022, more than 49 million birds in 46 states have either died as a result of bird flu virus infection or have been culled (killed) due to exposure to infected birds.” So far the avian flu has most severely impacted commercial egg and poultry producers in the Midwest, where flock sizes range from 10,000-1,000,000 birds. Increases in fuel, feed and labor costs also contribute to the national price hike.
So, if you’re going to pay $5-6 a dozen for eggs at the grocery store, why not buy them from a local farmer instead?
While the cost of grocery store eggs has risen a lot, the cost of local eggs has been relatively more stable. On average, the price of local eggs has only grown by only a dollar or so in the past year. Right now in the Adirondack region, local eggs cost around $5-6 a dozen, about the same price as mass-produced eggs from the Midwest. Not only would you get a better quality egg by purchasing from a local farm, but your dollars would also go directly to farms and small businesses in your community.
In these times of increasing feed, fuel, and labor costs, you may choose to use your dollars to support our Adirondack farmers.
PS…Did you know you can use your SNAP benefits to buy local food? Find local retailers that accept SNAP here.
