Memphis shoppers search for egg substitutes as prices rise

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — With eggs doubling in price over the past year, Memphis families are searching for cheaper protein sources.

“Oh, we’re about to start buying chickens,” said Meunka Dukes.

“On a serious note, about three or four chickens,” said her wife, Breonna Brown. “So if you know anybody that’s selling chickens, let us know!”

Eggs are now a pricey protein source for their three kids.

“We’re done baking,” Dukes said. “No baking is going on. We can’t afford it.”

“Prices are still too high,” admitted Jared Bernstein, an economic advisor to the White House.

Inflation is cooling slightly, according to the Consumer Price Index. Bernstein told FOX13 that Americans are also saving money at the gas pump.

“Some of that breathing room is already showing up,” he said.

“I can get to the store with the gas, but I can’t afford nothing in the store!” Dukes said.

Alternative protein sources

Camri McNary, otherwise known as “The Vegan Goddess,” creates vegan meal prep with alternative protein sources.

With the cost of eggs up 137% in a year, she recommends that Memphis shoppers try out other options.

“If that’s not a reason for you to go vegan, then I don’t know what it is!” she said.

McNary said it is extremely possible to bake with alternatives like banana, applesauce, vinegar, chia seeds or flax seeds.

Cooks can also find protein from beans, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh or quinoa.

“You just have to be more open-minded and more flexible,” she said. “I mean, if you want to continue to spend that much money just with eggs, then so be it!”

©2022 Imagicomm Memphis, Inc.