Forget the Fed frenzy and take a timeout from tariff talk. Let’s focus on what’s really scrambling the markets right now: egg prices.

After reaching an all-time high of $8.17 a dozen in early March, prices have trended lower and may drop below $3 in the coming weeks. What’s behind the sudden fall? The three main reasons are weaker consumer demand, the bird flu coming under control, and ramped-up supply.

So, when will you start to see relief at the checkout line? Soon perhaps. However, grocery store prices remain unpredictable because retailers are still a bit concerned about supply chains.

In recent months, economists have paid more attention to the price of eggs than to other constituents of the Consumer Price Index.

Why have egg prices become a proxy for inflation? 

One theory is that eggs symbolize something bigger about the U.S. economy. Not only are eggs a critical, inexpensive source of protein and nutrients for millions of consumers, but they are also a core part of many other foods made at home or mass-produced. So, eggs have become a tangible symbol of how consumers believe the broader economy is doing.

The Inside Coop: Chicken prices have remained stable despite the bird flu because broilers (chicken raised for meat) tend to have a shorter lifespan than egg-laying hens (6-8 weeks compared to 2 years). Shorter life spans mean flocks are less susceptible to outbreaks, and supply-and-demand issues can be resolved quickly.

I hope today’s email provided some insights into the egg market. It’s not often such a small part of our daily life that takes center stage in economics. 

^{Sources:
TradingEconomics.com, March 19, 2025. “Eggs US”
TheHill.com, February 13, 2025. “Egg prices are surging, so why are chicken prices stable?”}