Are Eggs Essential? How to Tackle Rising Food Costs
Scrambling for Eggs? Why Rising Prices Mean It’s Time to Rethink Breakfast
My great-grandmother made the best scrambled eggs. As she raised me, I woke up to the house smelling like buttery eggs with perfect texture - not too runny and not too firm. The aroma alone made my mouth water before I even woke up.
Since her passing, I’ve explored all the different ways to cook an egg. Whether it’s poached, scrambled, sunny-side up, boiled, or something else, I’ve been fascinated at how a single egg has the versatility and beauty to be prepared in whatever way you’re feeling for the day.
Eggs have long been a staple in American kitchens. They’re the foundation of many breakfast plates. But with prices skyrocketing to nearly $5 per dozen—and even higher in some states—it's time to ask:
Do we actually need eggs for breakfast? Or are we just used to them?
This isn’t just about the cost of eggs. It’s about rethinking our grocery habits, adjusting to rising food costs, and discovering alternatives that might actually be better for our health and our wallets.
Thinking back on my childhood memories, this one’s a difficult article to write. Can we separate our financial budgets from our sentiments?
Why Are Egg Prices So High?
At this point, egg prices have practically become a measure of inflation. Just when we thought we saw relief after the 2023 peak, prices shot back up in early 2025.
The reasons? A 65% increase in egg prices since the start of 2024 due to:
Avian flu outbreaks wiping out millions of egg-laying hens.
Supply shortages that are slow to recover.
High consumer demand that isn’t slowing down.
Some grocery stores are limiting how many cartons people can buy, and in certain cities, eggs are priced higher than a fast-food meal. In Michigan, some stores are charging $10 per dozen. In New York City? A shocking $18 for 18 eggs.
Eggs have officially become a luxury grocery item
The Big Question: Are Eggs Really Necessary?
For years, eggs have been considered a breakfast essential—a cheap, protein-packed way to start the day. But let’s challenge that assumption:
Do you need eggs for breakfast, or is it just a habit?
Could you swap them out for something just as filling, maybe even healthier?
If eggs weren’t available tomorrow, what would you eat instead?
The truth is, eggs are great—but they’re not irreplaceable.
Smart Substitutes for Eggs in Breakfast
Instead of stressing over the rising cost of eggs, consider these equally satisfying (and often cheaper) alternatives.
1. Protein-Packed Breakfasts (No Eggs Needed!)
✔ Greek Yogurt & Berries – High in protein, packed with probiotics, and cheaper than a carton of eggs in many places.
✔ Oatmeal with Nut Butter – A warm, hearty option loaded with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
✔ Cottage Cheese & Fruit – Surprisingly high in protein, affordable, and keeps you full.
✔ Smoothies with Protein Powder – Blends of bananas, berries, and protein powder can give you an energy boost without eggs.
2. Vegan Egg Replacements (For Cooking & Baking)
If you need eggs for cooking, here are some swaps:
✔ Flax Eggs – 1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg substitute.
✔ Mashed Bananas – Great for pancakes, muffins, and baking.
✔ Silken Tofu – Works as an egg substitute in scrambles and baked goods.
✔ Applesauce – Keeps baked goods moist without eggs.
The Bigger Picture: Adjusting to Rising Food Costs
Eggs aren’t the only grocery item seeing price hikes. Meat, dairy, and fresh produce have all been affected by inflation and supply chain disruptions.
So, what can we do?
✔ Be Flexible with Food Choices – If one item skyrockets in price, swap it for a cheaper, equally nutritious alternative.
✔ Buy in Bulk When Possible – When prices temporarily drop, stock up on essentials to avoid paying more later.
✔ Look at Generic Brands – Store-brand eggs, milk, and pantry staples can be significantly cheaper than name brands.
✔ Shop Local & Seasonal – Farmers' markets and local co-ops often have better deals on fresh produce and dairy.
The Truth About Food Costs: Adaptability is Key
There’s no denying that rising food costs are frustrating. Watching your grocery bill climb while getting less for your money is discouraging.
But here’s the thing—adaptability is your best weapon.
Eggs might be expensive today, but they won’t always be. Prices fluctuate. Trends change. Instead of feeling trapped by rising costs, use this as an opportunity to rethink your grocery habits.
Maybe you’ll find a new breakfast you love. Maybe you’ll discover egg substitutes that work better for your diet. Maybe you’ll realize that eggs were never an essential part of your meals after all.
Final Thoughts: You Have Options
Food prices are unpredictable. Eggs may continue to rise, or they may drop in a few months. But in the meantime, you don’t have to be held hostage by inflation.
✔ Think outside the box – Challenge the idea that you must eat eggs every morning.
✔ Explore cheaper, high-protein alternatives – Your breakfast can be just as satisfying without eggs.
✔ Make smart grocery swaps – Adapt to price hikes instead of letting them drain your wallet.
You can’t control inflation, but you can control how you respond to it. And sometimes, the best solution isn’t fighting the change—it’s embracing it.
So next time you’re at the store, ask yourself: Do I really need these eggs, or is there a better way?
Have a great week,
Jordan