Article Summary –
Egg prices have reached a record high of $6.23 per dozen, prompting consumers to find creative, cost-effective alternatives for Easter egg dyeing, such as using potatoes, marshmallows, and creating foil or plastic eggs. A notable trend is the rise in popularity of crafting kits, with stores like Michaels reporting a 20% increase in sales of craft egg kits compared to the previous year. Despite the high prices, 94% of Easter celebrants still plan to dye eggs, although 78% will dye fewer eggs than in the past.
MISSION, Kan. (AP) — With egg prices remaining high, creative alternatives are flooding the internet, including painting rocks and dyeing items like marshmallows and potatoes.
“Finally a use for B sized potatoes!!” commented a viewer on a Facebook video.
As U.S. egg prices hit a new high of $6.23 per dozen, budget-conscious parents are exploring other options. While prices may eventually fall, the current rates have revived ideas from the 2023 price surge, like coloring potatoes or rocks.
Marshmallows and potatoes spark video dyeing craze
One popular video features a mom using cupcake tins and dye, while her child dips marshmallows on toothpicks. Another influencer makes marshmallow chicks with yellow food coloring, black icing for eyes, and orange M&Ms for noses and feet.
Other videos highlight shoppers buying bags of potatoes and egg dye.
“Potatoes are about the only thing I can afford,” said a thankful commenter. Another simply said, “Cheaper.”
Foil eggs become a new tradition for one family
Kelly Friedl from Chicago turned to foil eggs with her kids this Easter due to high egg prices. By cutting cardboard into egg shapes and wrapping them in foil, she created shiny eggs to decorate.
“Our mom used to buy three dozen eggs,” said Friedl, 59, who leads a childcare products firm, Urban Infant. “It’s about the memory of doing something with your mom.”
Paas, an egg dye kit supplier, reported 94% of Easter celebrants will dye eggs this year, but 78% plan to dye fewer due to cost.
Plastic eggs, crafty kits, and other holiday fun
The craft store Michaels reported a 20% increase in sales of craft egg kits compared to last year, stated Melissa Mills, senior VP at Michaels.
Walmart, the largest U.S. retailer, didn’t comment on dyeable plastic eggs but has carried them previously. Options include a 12-pack of plastic eggs with dye packets and Play-Doh Easter eggs.
Despite the tradition shift, Friedl’s family eagerly awaits Easter.
“We’re a super crafty family, and the best gifts are homemade,” Friedl shared. “We gather every year to make eggs, and we love it.”
—
Read More Wisconsin News
