If you’ve been to a grocery store in California recently, you may have noticed that egg prices in California are on the rise. This isn’t just a problem in California, the same issue is faced in Canada and most countries as egg prices have been increasing across the countries globally. However, California’s egg market has some unique factors that are contributing to the price increases.
Main reasons for the rise in egg prices in California
Below are some main reasons for the rise in egg prices in California. One or more of these factors may vary from state to state as people express their views on egg prices in California.
Regulations on Caged-Birds
One of the main reasons for the rise in egg prices in California is the state’s regulations on keeping chickens in cages which concerns were raised against. In 2008, California voters approved Proposition 2, which mandated that chickens should be given enough space to move around. This law went into effect in 2015, and it has led to an increase in the cost of producing eggs. Farmers must now provide larger cages or free-range areas for their hens, which means more expenses and potentially causes low egg productivity.
Minimum wage increase
According to most poultry farmers, another factor contributing to the rise in egg prices in California is the minimum wage increase. As the minimum wage goes up, so do labor costs for farmers go high, and this indirectly affects prices in other chains of supply for the poultry sector such as feed and feeding materials which has led to higher egg prices for consumers.
As a California resident, I’ve certainly noticed the increase in egg prices at my local grocery store. It used to be that a dozen eggs could be had for under $2, but now it’s not uncommon to see a dozen of eggs for $7.
Olivia
How much does a dozen eggs cost in California?
Why are egg prices increasing in California?
Are there any alternative options to purchasing eggs in California?
In conclusion, the rise in egg prices in California can be attributed to a variety of factors, including regulations on chicken treatment and minimum wage increases.