ECONOMY & WORK
MONEY 101
NEWS
PERSONAL FINANCE
NET WORTH
About Us Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use DMCA Opt-out of personalized ads
© Copyright 2023 Market Realist. Market Realist is a registered trademark. All Rights Reserved. People may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice.
MARKETREALIST.COM / NEWS

Man exposes grocery stores for charging higher prices on eggs with a packaging trick

By altering its packaging to include the term "cage-free," the user's usual egg brand has hiked egg prices from $1.79 to $3.99 per dozen.
PUBLISHED AUG 28, 2024
Cover Image Source: Debate over egg packaging scam | TikTok | @sidemoneytom
Cover Image Source: Debate over egg packaging scam | TikTok | @sidemoneytom

Rising food prices have become a major concern as they are becoming a burden for household budgets, at a time when professionals are scrambling for additional income. But even in such dire times, some retailers are eyeing profits, even if it leads to manipulation. A TikTok user, identified as Tom, has raised eyebrows with claims that local grocers are engaging in deceptive practices by manipulating egg packaging to charge higher prices. In a viral video, Tom alleges that his usual egg brand has altered its packaging to include the term "cage-free," subsequently hiking up the price from $1.79 to $3.99 per dozen.

TikTok | @sidemoneytom
TikTok | @sidemoneytom

In the video, Tom visits his local grocery store to provide evidence of the purported scam, displaying the modified packaging and the associated increased cost. He points out that the store features signage explaining the meanings of "cage-free" and "free-range," highlighting that these terms do not guarantee outdoor access for the chickens. Tom asserts that grocers are exploiting these labels to dupe consumers into purchasing higher-priced eggs that offer no significant difference from cheaper alternatives. He notes that even basic white eggs sold in bulk at warehouse stores like Costco are labeled as "cage-free."

TikTok | @sidemoneytom
TikTok | @sidemoneytom

While Tom's claims have stirred controversy, some skepticism remains regarding the true nature of the packaging change. It's suggested that perhaps Tom resides in a state with stringent cage-free laws, or his preferred brand may have recently transitioned to producing cage-free eggs. In response to a discussion about egg options, user @sergeipetrenko8 suggested buying from a local farmer, advocating for supporting local agriculture. User @CactusZach423 chimed in, recommending, "Buy pasture raised!" emphasizing the importance of choosing eggs from free-range environments. Echoing this sentiment, user @Cara supported the idea, stating, "Pastured or pasture-raised is the way to go," highlighting the benefits of such eggs. Despite the allegations, it's emphasized that producers cannot falsely label their products to justify higher prices.

Tom's video sheds light on the importance of consumer awareness and research when making purchasing decisions, particularly when it comes to food products.

TikTok | @sidemoneytom
TikTok | @sidemoneytom

The video serves as a reminder for consumers to scrutinize labels and conduct their own investigations to ensure that they're not falling victim to deceptive marketing tactics. Ultimately, informed consumer choices can drive transparency and accountability within the industry. User @Greg argued, "It’s called marketing, you are not being scammed. Keep up with the marketing terms," suggesting that the use of marketing terms is a common practice in the industry. In response, user @nemdawg63 expressed skepticism, stating, "You’re right. Smart marketing = people must accept paying more for the same product. Obviously, it’s a ripoff," implying dissatisfaction with the perceived manipulation by marketers. 

TikTok | @sidemoneytom
TikTok | @sidemoneytom

From the discussions on social media platforms, it's evident that concerns over food labeling and pricing practices are gaining traction among consumers. Whether Tom's claims hold true or not, his message serves as a wake-up call for vigilant consumer advocacy in an increasingly complex marketplace. User @Pio contributed to the conversation by mentioning California regulations, commenting, "If this is California, then it’s required by law that they can’t sell non-cage free," expressing frustration with regulatory requirements.

User @July71777 injected humor into the discussion, questioning expectations for egg appearance, quipping, “Plainest”?! What are you expecting, Easter eggs?" These diverse perspectives shed light on the considerations consumers make when purchasing eggs. Lastly, user @bettieragealaska offered a unique tip, suggesting, "Buy from Costco in bulk and cover them in mineral oil. It mimics the bloom and they last longer," providing an alternative approach to preserving eggs. User @GonzTheMagnificent emphasized the importance of being a discerning buyer, stating, "Ya gotta be a savvy and questioning buyer. I just got 18 count eggs for $1.99 at Kroger," showcasing their ability to find affordable options.

For more such content, you can follow @sidemoneytom on TikTok.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on March 16, 2024. It has since been updated.

MORE ON MARKET REALIST
Rich Fields is one of the few lucky ones to introduce both Barker and Sajak on TV. 
32 minutes ago
The host had to stop the timer in the Fast Money round to recover from the shock.
2 hours ago
One can imagine how hilarious it was when the two iconic hosts shared the stage.
21 hours ago
Gwendolyn Osborne said that Carey changed the history of television and set a new standard.
23 hours ago
The player brought his parents on the stage and that made things even more emotionally charged.
1 day ago
The player did lose everything that he had won but also get another shot and made a stunning recovery.
1 day ago
Steve Harvey has previously shared style tips with fans in a behind the scenes clip.
2 days ago
The founders of "The Long Hairs" made a rocking pitch that had the sharks headbanging.
2 days ago
The family watched the show as a way to help their son learn problem solving skills from the games.
2 days ago
Jonathan Deiersing pitched his innovative men’s padded underwear line, "Rounder Bum" in the Tank.
3 days ago
Drew Carey is talented in a lot of ways and contestants also bring their unique skills on the stage sometimes.
3 days ago
Seacrest was so astonished that he had to test the contestant's strength right then and there.
3 days ago
Drew Carey is quite a sensation when it comes to performing viral dance trends.
3 days ago
The guest initially expected her grandmother's painting to be worth a couple hundred dollars.
3 days ago
The creators of the show apparently went too far with the joke but tried to make up for it too.
4 days ago
The TikTok creator claimed that the recalled products are widely used by low-income and middle-class families.
4 days ago
The star was stopped midway by his partner while fans loved the look.
4 days ago
Viewers couldn't believe what they saw and some even suggested it could be a prank.
4 days ago
Cuban offered the entrepreneur a "geek to geek" offer that he couldn't refuse.
5 days ago
Reports suggest that the anti-theft measures are causing hostility between shoppers and workers.
5 days ago