Liquid eggs: How NYC bodegas are using a new strategy to keep bacon, eggs, and cheese prices affordable
Discover how NYC bodegas are adopting a new strategy with liquid eggs to help keep the cost of the classic bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich down, making it more affordable for New Yorkers.
The beloved bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, a staple at New York City bodegas, is getting a price cut thanks to a clever cost-saving measure. As egg prices continue to soar, workers at NYC bodegas have found a way to keep this popular breakfast item affordable by switching to liquid eggs instead of regular eggs.
Liquid eggs at 'La Bonita Deli & Grocery' in the Bronx
The idea, which was first introduced at La Bonita Deli & Grocery in the Bronx, is helping to reduce the standard price of a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich from $6 to $4.99. This new strategy, backed by the United Bodegas of America (UBA), is part of an effort to shield customers from the rising cost of eggs, which have more than doubled compared to last year.
“We don’t need rocket scientists to solve this,” said Fernando Mateo, UBA’s spokesman. “We’ll do whatever we have to do to fulfill our commitment to the communities we serve.”
How liquid eggs help lower costs for bodegas and customers
So, how does the liquid egg substitute work? The liquid eggs are poured directly from a carton—similar to a milk carton—onto the griddle. The carton contains the equivalent of 18 eggs, making it a more cost-effective option compared to buying a dozen shelled eggs.
The classic bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich has become a staple breakfast for new yorkers. Photo: Audacy
Mateo explained that as long as the quart of liquid egg costs less than a dozen eggs, bodegas can maintain the price of their sandwiches under $5. “When we can save a dollar on a sandwich, that’s a lot. That’s a dollar they can use to buy other things,” he added.
Rising Egg Prices Continue to Affect NYC Breakfast Staples
The rising cost of eggs has been a significant factor in price hikes across many food items. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the cost of eggs has more than doubled compared to last year, with a potential increase of another 41% in 2025. The USDA has introduced a $1 billion plan to address the growing egg shortage and rising prices.
While some customers are hesitant to embrace the liquid egg solution, the UBA believes that this change is an innovative way to continue offering affordable breakfast options in the face of economic challenges. If the price of liquid egg cartons increases in the future, Mateo said, bodegas will “cross that bridge when we get there.”