1. Start Raising Your Own Chickens
One of the most rewarding (and cost-effective) ways to beat rising egg prices is to raise your own chickens. It might sound like a big commitment, but chickens are surprisingly easy to care for and can produce fresh eggs every day. Once you’ve set up a suitable chicken coop and purchased a few hens, you’ll be able to enjoy a constant supply of eggs without having to worry about fluctuating prices.
While the initial investment might seem hefty, the long-term savings are substantial. Chickens are relatively low-maintenance and only require food, water, and a safe place to roost. Plus, when you raise chickens, you know exactly where your eggs come from, which is a great bonus if you’re concerned about food quality and ethics. Raising your own chickens can be a fun, educational experience that pays off in delicious, fresh eggs.
2. Buy in Bulk to Save Money
Buying eggs in bulk is one of the easiest ways to lower the cost per dozen. Wholesale or large-purchase stores, like Costco or Sam’s Club, often offer significant discounts on larger quantities of eggs. If you’re able to store a bulk supply properly, you can stock up and avoid paying inflated prices every time you need to buy eggs.
Eggs are versatile and last for a surprisingly long time when stored correctly. If you have a large fridge or extra freezer space, you can freeze eggs to extend their shelf life. Simply crack them into a container, whisk them together, and freeze in portions for future use. This bulk-buying strategy will keep you ahead of rising prices while reducing the number of trips you need to make to the store.
3. Shop Around for Deals and Discounts
Don’t just settle for the first store you see when you’re shopping for eggs. Prices vary widely across different grocery stores, and some might offer better deals or discounts than others. By doing a little research, you can save big on eggs without compromising quality.
Consider signing up for store loyalty programs to get access to exclusive discounts or digital coupons. Many grocery chains will offer promotions or price drops on eggs during certain times of the year. If you’re flexible with your egg purchases, you can take advantage of sales and stock up before prices climb again.
4. Switch to Egg Substitutes When Possible
If you’re looking to reduce egg consumption altogether, using egg substitutes is an effective way to lower costs. Many baking recipes and dishes that typically require eggs can be made with affordable alternatives. Ingredients like flaxseeds, chia seeds, applesauce, or even tofu can replace eggs in many dishes without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Not only will this save you money, but it also gives you the opportunity to experiment with different ingredients in your cooking. Whether you’re making pancakes, muffins, or scrambled “eggs,” there are plenty of plant-based or inexpensive options that can do the trick. Over time, you’ll realize how versatile egg substitutes can be and how much you can save by using them in your recipes.
5. Buy Local Eggs from Farmers or Farmers’ Markets
If you live in a rural or suburban area, buying eggs directly from a local farm or farmers’ market can be a great alternative to the grocery store. Local farmers often offer fresh, high-quality eggs at a more reasonable price compared to large-scale supermarkets. Plus, purchasing from a local farm means you’re supporting the community and reducing your carbon footprint.
Another benefit is that the eggs are likely to be fresher since they haven’t traveled as far to reach you. When you buy directly from a farm, you’re also cutting out middlemen, which can lead to lower prices. By forming a relationship with a local farmer, you might even be able to score bulk discounts or better prices over time.
6. Take Advantage of Egg Subscription Boxes
Egg subscription boxes are becoming a popular way for people to access fresh eggs at a steady, discounted price. These services often deliver eggs directly to your door, eliminating the need for frequent trips to the store. You can choose the frequency of deliveries based on your egg consumption and even customize the box to include other farm-fresh products.
Many subscription services partner with small, ethical farms, so you’re getting high-quality eggs at a lower cost while supporting local farmers. Plus, you might even be able to get discounts or special deals if you sign up for longer subscription periods. If you’re someone who eats a lot of eggs, this could be an ideal solution for both convenience and savings.
7. Consider Eating Fewer Eggs (But Still Getting the Nutrients)
If egg prices are getting a bit too high for your budget, one simple way to cut costs is by consuming fewer eggs. That doesn’t mean you have to give them up completely, but finding ways to eat them in moderation can save you money without sacrificing essential nutrients. Eggs are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, but other foods like beans, lentils, tofu, and dairy can provide similar benefits.
By incorporating a variety of protein sources into your diet, you won’t rely on eggs as heavily. Consider adding a bit of variety to your meals, such as making omelets with fewer eggs and more veggies or using eggs for specific recipes that call for them rather than as a daily staple. The key is balance—enjoy eggs when you can, but explore alternatives to help save money in the long run.
8. Grow Your Own Vegetables for Cheap Egg Dishes
Another way to cut back on the cost of egg-based meals is by growing your own vegetables. Many egg dishes, like omelets, frittatas, or scrambled eggs, are enhanced with fresh veggies. By growing ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions, you can reduce the overall cost of these meals. Not only will you save money on veggies, but homegrown produce can also taste better and be healthier.
Growing your own vegetables isn’t just a cost-saving method; it’s also a rewarding and educational experience. Even if you don’t have a large garden, you can grow herbs and small veggies in containers on your porch or windowsill. The combination of affordable, home-grown produce and eggs will give you tasty and budget-friendly meals, especially when egg prices rise.
9. Find Egg-Free Recipes That Are Just as Delicious
If you’re not keen on paying a premium for eggs, it’s time to explore some egg-free recipes that can still satisfy your cravings. From egg-free cookies and cakes to vegan scrambled “eggs,” there are plenty of dishes that require no eggs at all. It’s easier than ever to find creative alternatives for classic recipes that traditionally rely on eggs.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also discover a whole new world of recipes and ingredients you may have never tried before. Using alternatives like silken tofu, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), or even mashed bananas can give your dishes that same satisfying texture and flavor. As you dive into egg-free recipes, you might find that you like them even more than the originals!
10. Look for Discounted or “Expiring” Eggs
Many grocery stores have discounted sections where they offer products that are nearing their expiration dates, including eggs. You may think that “expiring” eggs are a bad deal, but eggs typically stay fresh for several weeks after the sell-by date. By purchasing eggs that are close to their expiration, you can save money and use them up before they spoil.
Be sure to check the eggs carefully before purchasing. If the eggs are in good condition and you’ll be using them quickly, buying these discounted cartons can significantly reduce your grocery costs. This trick works especially well if you bake often or use eggs regularly in your meals, making it easy to use up the eggs quickly before they go bad.
