The Metro: Why egg prices could keep going up

Wayne State University Economics Department Chair Kevin Cotter joined the show to discuss what’s affecting the price of eggs, groceries and inflation more broadly.

A "USE BY" date is stamped on two cartons of eggs, Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022.

FILE - A "USE BY" date is stamped on two cartons of eggs, Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022.

Photo credit: Charles Rex Arbogast, AP Photo

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Egg prices have soared across the country in recent months, with the average price of a dozen eggs in Michigan hovering at $5. 

Inflation, bird flu compromising commercial flocks statewide, and a new law that requires all eggs sold in Michigan to be cage-free are all playing a part.

The steep cost of this staple grocery item was central to President Trump’s campaign. He pledged to make things like groceries more affordable for the average American. But what kind of power does he really have to do that? 

Kevin Cotter, professor and chair of Wayne State University’s Department of Economics, joined the show to discuss the economic landscape of eggs, groceries and inflation more broadly.

Hear more stories from The Metro on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025.

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Authors

  • The Metro
  • John Filbrandt
    Jack Filbrandt is an assistant producer on WDET's daily news, arts and culture program, The Metro. He grew up on Lake Michigan and has called Detroit home for seven years. He's also a Detroit Documenter, covering local government meetings in the city. He previously worked for Wayne State's student newspaper, The South End, and The Battering Ram.