The cost of everyday items is certainly on the rise, and it’s not just your favorite streaming service or fast food joint that’s charging more.
Earlier this year, you may remember that egg prices hit record highs, and chicken prices are on a similar trajectory. That’s right: if you were planning on making some delicious fajitas this week, be prepared to fork over a bit more cash, because chicken prices at the grocery store are soaring.
In August, retail prices for whole fresh chickens and bone-in legs hit all-time highs, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Drumstick prices also saw a 10% increase from their low point in February.
Some folks are pointing fingers at President Joe Biden for the steep prices.
"What is Joe Biden going to do about the astronomical chicken wing prices," one person posted on X (the website formerly known as Twitter) in July.
"Joe Biden's America!" another person wrote.
"Chicken prices reach a record high thanks to idiot Joe Biden and his administration," one post reads.
This certainly isn't the first time consumers have blamed President Biden for inflation. However, it's worth noting that various factors contribute to this situation, including the pandemic's impact on production and supply.
Fox Business reports that companies began scaling back their chicken production last year. Tyson Foods and other poultry producers have reduced their output, driving prices up. Tyson, a major player in the meat industry, closed six U.S. chicken plants this year as part of cost-cutting measures following the pandemic's impact.
Interestingly enough, even though chicken prices are "astronomical," people are now eating more of it than ever. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans are expected to consume over 100 pounds of chicken per person this year, a record high. So, despite the higher prices, our love for chicken remains strong. And the good news is that there's hope for stabilization in the market ahead.
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