WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — In commercial kitchens and down grocery refrigerator aisles, a dollar won’t get you a dozen eggs these days.
Last February, a dozen eggs cost $2.52 on average, according to figures from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
The average cost for a dozen was $4.95 last month, and has risen significantly to $8.07 as of Friday, according to an ‘egg markets overview’ published Friday by the USDA.
The sticker shock continues after Monday’s outlook from the USDA, indicating costs may rise 41% this year, which means a dozen could cost over $11.
Restaurants have started adjusting prices on account of egg price trends, including at Ted’s Bulletin in D.C., where one diner faced a 75-cent surcharge for breakfast entrees with eggs.
Ted’s Bulletin owner, Steve Salis, said he did not want to add the surcharge and hopes to get rid of it soon.
However, if egg prices keep rising, the restaurant may increase the 75-cent charge, calling the situation “touch and go” and will “evaluate [the situation] in earnest.”
Logan Tavern has not included an egg-related surcharge, but increasing price trends may prompt staff to change menu prices.
“Probably, maybe, hold out for another month,” said restaurant partner, Ashley Blake. “If we can avoid it, we definitely try. But this looks like it may be one of those things that is unavoidable.”
Blake said continued or new tariffs may also cause a price increase.
Tavern Chef Kevin said that a case of eggs previously cost the restaurant $90, and has risen to $250.
