Egg prices saw a drop of nearly 13% last month, but they’re still pretty high, averaging around $5.12 for a dozen. The USDA is predicting a possible increase in prices of up to 54% this year, which isn’t great news for consumers.
While avian flu has played a part in driving up egg prices, it’s not the only factor at play.
Mercy for Animals aims to decrease the availability of natural eggs, promoting plant-based synthetic alternatives instead.
This is particularly relevant in states like California, where tough regulations concerning pork products further inflate prices.
Hidden tax
California’s Proposition 12 has compelled farmers outside of the state to upgrade their facilities for chickens and provide larger spaces for pigs, to enable these products to enter California’s markets.
“It’s essentially a hidden food tax that many people aren’t aware of,” explains Will Coggin, the research director at the Center for Environment and Welfare.
A February survey revealed that 88% of Americans were worried about rising food prices, leading many to adjust their shopping habits, including buying fewer eggs.
Farmers from states like Iowa and North Carolina have been struggling with the high costs of renovations necessary to access California’s market, subsequently affecting egg prices on a national level. California holds around 13% of the national egg market.
Coggin noted that many farmers are in a tough situation, emphasizing that state regulations shouldn’t dictate agricultural practices in other areas. He suggested that repealing Prop. 12 should be a consideration in the upcoming farm bill due by September.
…and a hidden agenda
Proposition 12 restricts standard animal housing and has backing from animal rights organizations like Mercy for Animals. Their focus is on ensuring hens have outdoor access and that cages provide more physical space.
Mercy for Animals was founded by a fifth-generation farmer and aims to phase out natural eggs, pushing for plant-based synthetic varieties instead.
Similar proposals to Prop. 12 are being initiated in states like Washington, Oregon, Michigan, and Colorado.
Agriculture Secretary Brook Rollins is part of the campaign against Prop. 12, urging Congress to override it. Notably, egg prices have surged by 103% since Prop. 12’s implementation in 2022.
Amid the ongoing food price crisis affecting eggs and many staples, raising chickens at home is becoming a more appealing option for some Americans looking for alternatives to overpriced supermarket eggs.
Procuring local eggs
Buying locally produced eggs has its advantages. While prices aren’t always lower, the freshness and quality are typically better, and consumers can support local farmers, which is a win for community sustainability.
Visiting local farmers’ markets or farm stands is a solid starting point. Alternatively, joining a food cooperative can provide fresh produce, eggs, and meat on a regular basis.
How about raising your own chickens?
There’s a growing trend among Americans to raise their own chickens, especially for those with suitable garden space and local legal allowances. While local regulations vary, even cities like Philadelphia are seeing a rise in backyard chickens.
It’s important to check local laws about keeping chickens in your backyard before you start planning.
- Look for healthy egg-laying breeds like Isabrowns or Red Silks at local farm stores or from reputable sellers online. These breeds are generally hardy and can lay tasty eggs while being resilient to various conditions.
- Maintain cleanliness and ensure that chickens are protected from wild birds. Regularly monitor their health and remember that hens typically start laying eggs around 24 weeks of age.
- Create a basic chicken coop using 2x4s, plywood, and chicken wire. Allow about four square feet per chicken in the coop, providing space outside to roam. Using materials like straw or coarse sand can make for suitable bedding.
- Ensure they have fresh food and water, and check their eggs each morning—using a hanging feeder and water source is usually helpful. Adding apple cider vinegar to their water can help prevent infections. A 50-pound bag of feed generally costs around $25 and lasts about a month.
- Eggs can stay fresh outside for up to two weeks, but it’s best to collect them daily. Be careful when washing eggs, as that removes their natural protective coating, necessitating refrigeration afterward.
YouTube can be a great resource for more complete guidance, with channels like Shady Homestead offering useful tips.
Now, realistically speaking, raising chickens seems simpler than it is. Underestimating the investment of time, money, and effort could lead to unexpected challenges.
Still, compared to what you might spend on a year’s worth of eggs from the store, the upfront cost of raising your own chickens could actually save you money in the long run.
