Filipino desserts heavily rely on eggs as a key ingredient. The egg shortage significantly impact the cost of these beloved treats.
LOS ANGELES, CA – The rising cost of eggs has hit Filipino households and small businesses hard, as prices continue to climb due to supply shortages and inflation. Once an affordable kitchen staple, eggs are now among the most expensive items in grocery stores, with prices soaring over 50% in the past year, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This sharp increase is forcing families and businesses to make difficult adjustments.
Why Are Egg Prices Rising?
The primary driver behind the price surge is the ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, which has led to the loss of millions of egg-laying hens across the country. With fewer hens producing eggs, supply has dwindled while demand remains high, driving up costs.
In addition to bird flu, higher feed prices, increased fuel costs, and persistent supply chain disruptions have further contributed to the spike.
Impact on Filipino Food Businesses
For many Filipino restaurants and bakeries, eggs are a core ingredient in countless dishes, from baked goods to traditional meals. The price increase has put a strain on small business owners, forcing them to make tough choices — whether to raise prices, reduce portion sizes, or find ingredient alternatives.
“We use eggs in so many of our baked goods and main dishes,” shared a Filipino bakery owner in Los Angeles. “We’re trying to absorb some of the cost, but we’ve also had to slightly increase our prices. It’s tough because we know our customers are also struggling with rising grocery costs.”
Filipino bakeries have been especially impacted, as eggs are essential for many traditional pastries and desserts like ensaymada and leche flan. Some have turned to smaller farms or wholesalers to manage expenses, but balancing affordability with sustainability remains a challenge.
How Filipino Families Are Adjusting
For many Filipino households, eggs are a versatile and reliable protein source, making them a staple in daily meals. With prices skyrocketing, families have adapted with creativity and resourcefulness. They buy in bulk when prices drop, explore local Asian markets for better deals, and substitute eggs with alternatives in recipes. Some families have even reserved eggs for special dishes, carefully balancing tradition with practicality.
These inventive cooking adjustments allow families to stretch ingredients without compromising on taste or cultural heritage. By sharing tips and insights within their communities, they help preserve beloved dishes and strengthen their collective resilience in the face of rising costs.
Government Response and Possible Solutions
To address the crisis, the USDA has announced measures such as increasing biosecurity protocols to prevent further bird flu outbreaks, providing financial aid to poultry farmers to help repopulate egg-laying flocks, and exploring egg imports from other countries to stabilize supply and ease domestic shortages. However, experts warn that it may take several months before production normalizes and prices begin to stabilize. In the meantime, consumers can help mitigate the impact by supporting local farms, joining community co-ops, or exploring alternative protein sources to ease reliance on eggs.
Navigating the Challenges Ahead
Filipino small businesses are responding to rising costs with resilience, leaning on community support to navigate these tough times. They are adjusting with creativity and determination, while families carefully manage their meals and budgets to make ends meet.
Despite the challenges, families are embracing resourcefulness, discovering new ways to sustain themselves, and holding onto hope for relief as they continue to make the most of every meal.
How are you dealing with the rising cost of eggs? Share your experience with us in the comment section below.
