Why Eggs Cost $5 and Who’s Getting Rich Off It

Profits Soaring, Thanks to You

While prices at the store keep climbing, these companies are quietly cashing government checks. The USDA handed out $21 million in taxpayer-funded compensation to help egg producers recover from the ongoing bird flu epidemic. 

But instead of using that aid to restore production and ease prices, some of these companies have been slow to restock flocks. They’ve even been accused of acquiring competitors to further control supply and inflate prices.

Translation? You’re paying more for less two times. Once at checkout, and again through your taxes.

Weather Woes Meet Greed

The weather hasn’t helped. Droughts, floods and storms have all disrupted food supply chains across the country. But while Mother Nature plays a part, corporate strategy is helping keep shelves bare and prices high.

The USDA says it's taking action. They even launched a five-point plan that includes support for farmers. But critics say it’s too little, too late. 

Especially for families already priced out of their own pantries.

Americans Are Fed Up

The backlash is growing. Americans are tired of watching billion-dollar companies cry about hard times while they post record earnings. Folks have grown tired of biting the bullet as grocery bills get more expensive.

Other countries are weathering the same storms, but with stable prices on necessities like eggs. That’s because in many parts of the world, food is seen as a necessity, not a luxury. Here in the U.S. it’s like food is just another asset to Wall Street.

The Bottom Line

Eggs used to be the most affordable source of protein for millions of Americans. Now, they’re a case study in what happens when an essential food gets caught in the crosshairs of corporate greed.

The question isn’t just why are eggs so expensive. It’s why they’re letting folks get away with it.