The rise in egg prices due to a bird flu outbreak is impacting New York City’s iconic bodega sandwich, the beloved bacon, egg, and cheese. As farmers are forced to cull millions of chickens monthly to prevent the spread of the virus, delis and bodegas are grappling with the dilemma of maintaining the sandwich’s affordability amidst skyrocketing egg costs.
The classic breakfast delight, consisting of two eggs, bacon, American cheese, and a Kaiser roll, has long been a staple for New Yorkers on the go. However, the recent surge in egg prices has made it challenging for deli owners to keep the sandwich’s price unchanged. While the cost can range from $4.50 to $6.50, some areas in the city are experiencing even steeper prices.
Anthony Bonavita, the owner of Benny’s Deli & Catering in Ridgewood, Queens, shared his struggle in balancing the sandwich’s cost and consumer expectations. He revealed that the price of eggs has risen significantly, affecting his profit margins. Despite selling around 50 sandwiches a day at $5.50 each, Bonavita is facing the harsh reality of needing to increase prices to cover his expenses.
The root cause of this predicament lies in the bird flu outbreak that started in 2022, leading to the mass culling of chickens and subsequent egg supply shortages. As a result, egg prices have surged nationally, with New York City experiencing a staggering 139% increase in egg prices compared to the previous year. This inflation has forced deli owners like Bonavita to contemplate raising prices to ensure sustainability.
Delicate Balancing Act for Deli Owners
Deli owners are navigating a delicate balancing act between maintaining customer loyalty and covering their operational costs. Large cases of eggs that used to cost $50 to $60 before the pandemic are now priced at $215 or more, putting a strain on deli margins. This increase in egg prices has prompted owners like Ahmed Zandani of NY Deli and Grill in the East Village to reassess their pricing strategies.
Zandani emphasized the impact of rising egg prices on his business, noting that the current price of $6.50 for a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich is becoming unsustainable. He shared the challenges of trying to raise prices to offset costs while also considering customer affordability. With other deli staples like tomatoes, lettuce, and coffee experiencing price hikes, deli owners are facing tough decisions to keep their businesses afloat.
Hope Amidst Uncertainty
Despite the economic strain caused by escalating egg prices, deli owners like Ahmed Shaibi of Aden Deli in Bushwick, Brooklyn, remain hopeful for a resolution. Shaibi expressed concerns about losing customers if prices were raised beyond $5, underscoring the delicate balance between profitability and customer satisfaction. As the industry grapples with uncertainty, there is a collective hope for stabilization in egg prices to alleviate the financial burden on delis and bodegas.
In conclusion, the bird flu outbreak has had a profound impact on New York City’s bodega sandwich culture, prompting deli owners to reconsider their pricing strategies in the face of rising egg costs. While the future remains uncertain, the resilience and adaptability of these small businesses offer a glimmer of hope amidst economic challenges. As New Yorkers continue to enjoy their beloved bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches, the industry’s ability to weather this storm will be a testament to its enduring spirit.
