Between the fowl flu and all the availability chain crap, the value of eggs is getting ridiculous. So for those who’re attempting to not blow your grocery finances, this information’s received some methods to get eggs free of charge or low cost—and for those who’re completely over eggs, I discovered a bunch of cool swaps that’ll do exactly fantastic.
1. Increase Yard Chickens
For those who’ve received the house — even a small yard — just a few hens can provide your family with a gradual stream of eggs. Most breeds lay 4–6 eggs per week (besides within the winter), so even three chickens can simply present a dozen weekly.
Begin-Up Wants: You’ll want a coop (construct your individual or purchase one), bedding, feeders, and water containers. Prices range, however many individuals DIY with scrap wooden or repurpose outdated canine homes.
Feed Prices: Count on to spend round $15–$25 per thirty days on feed for a small flock.
Extras: Chickens additionally love meals scraps, which may help cut back your feed invoice.
Authorized Notes: At all times examine your metropolis’s guidelines — some areas permit hens however not roosters, or restrict the variety of birds you’ll be able to preserve.
Whereas there’s an upfront price, it pays off over time — particularly for those who’re already spending $5+ a dozen on eggs. Plus, you’ll get brisker eggs and possibly even just a few smiles out of your feathery mates.
PRO TIP: CONTACT LOCAL 4-H OR FFA CLUBS
Youth agricultural applications like 4-H or Future Farmers of America (FFA) usually increase chickens as a part of their faculty or challenge work.
Typically they find yourself with surplus eggs they’re joyful to present away or promote low cost to the group — particularly after truthful season or faculty breaks.
Attain out to your native extension workplace or ag trainer and politely ask in the event that they know anybody with additional eggs.
2. Commerce or Barter with Neighbors
Lots of people who increase chickens have extra eggs than they’ll use.
If you recognize somebody with hens, see in the event that they’d be open to a commerce.
Most yard hen homeowners are joyful to alternate eggs for one thing helpful:
– Home made bread or baked items
– Further veggies out of your backyard
– Assist round their yard or pet-sitting whereas they’re away
– Kitchen scraps (many hen homeowners respect this!)
Examine native teams like Fb Market, Purchase Nothing, or Nextdoor — individuals usually submit about egg swaps or freebies. Even a submit saying, “Trying to commerce one thing small for eggs” can spark a deal.
See Additionally: Insider Grocery Secrets and techniques: The right way to Pay Much less Than Everybody Else
3. Go to Meals Pantries or Church Distributions
For those who’re experiencing a tricky month (and who hasn’t?), don’t overlook your native meals financial institution, church pantry, or group heart.
Many pantries companion with native farms or grocery shops to distribute eggs, particularly close to the vacations.
Some supply “perishable days” with recent meals like milk, cheese, and eggs.
Church buildings usually run meals applications or weekend breakfast occasions that embody egg dishes — and a few ship of us house with groceries.
Name forward or examine their web site to see what’s accessible. There’s no disgrace in getting somewhat assist — that’s what these assets are for.
PRO TIP: RETURN EGG CARTONS FOR A DISCOUNT
For those who purchase eggs on the farmers market or from a yard vendor, returning empty egg cartons can typically get you a reduction — or an additional egg or two.
Farmers love not having to purchase new cartons. Bonus: It makes you a “most popular” buyer they’ll bear in mind.
4. Be a part of a CSA or Meals Co-op
CSA (Group Supported Agriculture) applications usually embody eggs of their weekly farm packing containers, or they provide an “egg add-on” at a reduction for those who’re already subscribing to provide. It’s not free, however the worth per dozen is often higher than shopping for them from the shop — and also you’re supporting native farmers.
Many CSAs run on a seasonal foundation and supply cost plans or settle for SNAP.
Meals co-ops may additionally supply lower-priced eggs to members, particularly in the event that they purchase in bulk.
Some permit work-trade choices — volunteer just a few hours a month and get a reduction in your groceries, together with eggs.
If there’s a neighborhood co-op in your space, take a look at their member perks — it would repay shortly.
5. Use Coupon & Cashback Apps
Apps like Ibotta, Fetch, and Checkout 51 are nice for incomes a reimbursement on groceries — and eggs are sometimes on their lists.
How It Works: Activate affords within the app, purchase the merchandise at a retailer, then scan your receipt to earn money again.
Tip: Stack this with retailer gross sales or coupons for even greater financial savings.
Instance: If eggs are $5.99/dozen and also you get $1 again from Ibotta, you’ve solely paid $4.99 — or much less for those who had a coupon, too.
Even higher? Typically these apps run promos with fully free eggs, particularly across the holidays or when costs are excessive.
PRO TIP: USE IBOTTA’S “ANY BRAND” OFFER
Ibotta and related apps usually give rebates for “any model of eggs”.
Pair this with store-brand eggs on sale (like Aldi’s or Walmart’s), and you would find yourself paying subsequent to nothing — and even make a revenue if there’s a stackable in-store coupon.
See Additionally: The right way to Discover Hidden Clearance Offers at Walmart
6. Store at Low cost Grocery Shops
For those who’re not already purchasing at locations like Aldi, Lidl, Grocery Outlet, or Save-A-Lot, now’s the time.
These low cost grocery shops usually carry the identical eggs (or higher high quality) for a lot lower than conventional supermarkets.
You may additionally discover clearance markdowns on eggs nearing their “promote by” date — that are nonetheless good for weeks when refrigerated correctly.
At warehouse golf equipment like Costco or Sam’s Membership, the per-egg worth is often decrease for those who’re okay shopping for in bulk (e.g., 2 dozen at a time).
Look ahead to weekly flyers, and when costs dip, seize a few cartons and retailer them safely (eggs preserve effectively for 3–5 weeks within the fridge).
PRO TIP: GET CREATIVE AT DISCOUNT STORES
Low cost shops don’t play by the foundations — and that’s your benefit. Skip the flyer and head straight to the bizarre, half-stocked fridge part.
Search for off-brand eggs, random farm labels, or “supervisor’s particular” stickers.
For those who see a worth that appears fallacious, it’s in all probability proper — seize first, query later. At locations like Grocery Outlet, the egg offers don’t look forward to you. They vanish.
7. Go to Farmers Markets Late within the Day
For those who like supporting native farmers however suppose farmers markets are too dear — go later within the day.
As distributors are packing up, they might be keen to chop offers to keep away from taking perishables again house.
You may merely ask, “Any offers on eggs right this moment?” or “Would you do $X for 2 dozen?” — a well mannered ask by no means hurts.
Some sellers will even toss in an additional egg or two for those who’re a daily.
And a bonus: farm eggs are sometimes brisker and tastier than store-bought.
PRO TIP: ASK ABOUT DAMAGED CARTONS
Many shops will low cost and even give away egg cartons which have one or two damaged eggs.
Simply ask the dairy supervisor: “Do you ever have any cracked cartons you’re marking down?” You may salvage the great eggs and toss the damaged ones.
Deliver a clear container to securely transport the great ones house.
8. Use SNAP or WIC Advantages for Eggs
For those who qualify for SNAP (EBT) or WIC advantages, eggs are an eligible merchandise.
SNAP playing cards work identical to debit playing cards at any grocery retailer — and eggs are sometimes one of many least expensive sources of protein per greenback.
Some farmers markets settle for EBT and even supply “Double Bucks” applications, the place your SNAP {dollars} go additional.
WIC contributors (particularly breastfeeding mothers and children over 1) usually get free eggs as a part of their month-to-month meals packages.
For those who’re unsure whether or not you’re eligible, examine along with your native well being division or go to Advantages.gov to get began.
PRO TIP: FREEZE EGGS DURING SALES
When eggs are actually low cost (particularly round Easter or Christmas), replenish and freeze them.
Crack them into ice dice trays or small containers, beat flippantly, and freeze for later use in baking or cooking.
They’ll final for as much as a 12 months and prevent from paying full worth when costs go up once more.
9. Take Benefit of Vacation Gross sales
Grocery shops usually run deep reductions on eggs earlier than main holidays — particularly:
– Easter (for dyeing and baking)
– Thanksgiving (for baking pies, casseroles)
– Christmas and New 12 months’s (plenty of baking, brunches, and events)
Look ahead to flyers out of your favourite shops within the weeks main up. You may also join retailer apps or newsletters to get alerts.
Eggs can usually drop to half their standard worth and even much less — a good time to replenish.
10. Simply Ask
Don’t underestimate the ability of merely asking round.
Whether or not it’s a pal with a CSA field, a coworker who raises hens, or somebody in your neighborhood group — eggs are a standard surplus.
You may submit one thing like:
“Anybody have yard chickens and too many eggs? Pleased to commerce or decide up extras!”
You’d be shocked how usually somebody’s joyful to assist.
And Now 10 Egg Alternate options (That Really Work!)
Whether or not you’re out of eggs, avoiding them as a result of allergic reactions, or following a plant-based food regimen, these options can save the day.
These swaps work greatest relying on whether or not you’re baking, binding, or frying.
1. Applesauce
Makes use of: Baking (muffins, desserts, brownies)
Ratio: ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce = 1 egg
Taste Affect: Applesauce is ideal for candy baked items however not splendid for savory dishes or recipes the place eggs must bind or fry. Persist with muffins, desserts, and brownies the place somewhat additional moisture and sweetness are a bonus.
2. Flaxseed Meal
Makes use of: Baking and binding (cookies, pancakes)
Ratio: 1 tbsp floor flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg
Why It Works: Creates a gel-like consistency excellent for holding issues collectively.
PRO TIP: BE PATIENT AND LET IT SIT
Flaxseed is a go-to for binding in recipes like pancakes, waffles, and veggie burgers.
Simply make sure to let the combination sit for a couple of minutes so it may possibly gel correctly—this mimics the feel of an egg and helps maintain all the things collectively.
3. Chia Seeds
Makes use of: Just like flax (pancakes, muffins)
Ratio: 1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg
Bonus: Provides fiber and omega-3s.
4. Mashed Banana
Makes use of: Baking (banana bread, pancakes, cookies)
Ratio: ¼ cup mashed banana = 1 egg
Greatest For: Candy recipes—provides taste and moisture.
PRO TIP: THE BANANA HACK IS REAL
From longtime weblog reader, Tina, she instructed me the next….”I as soon as ran out of eggs mid-banana bread and thought, “Nicely… bananas are already in right here…” I used an additional mashed one as a swap, and actually? It turned out much more moist and flavorful.”
Now she instructed me that she does it on function. She additionally added, “Simply bear in mind—mashed banana provides sweetness and that basic banana taste, so it really works greatest in baked items the place that vibe suits.”
5. Silken Tofu
Makes use of: Quiches, custards, creamy recipes
Ratio: ¼ cup blended silken tofu = 1 egg
Texture: Easy, impartial style.
6. Yogurt (or Non-Dairy Yogurt)
Makes use of: Desserts, muffins, and fast breads.
Ratio: ¼ cup = 1 egg
Tip: Select plain for impartial taste; Greek-style provides richer texture.
7. Business Egg Replacers
Manufacturers: Bob’s Pink Mill, Ener-G, JUST Egg (liquid).
Makes use of: Versatile—good for baking, scrambling, and extra.
The right way to Use: Observe package deal instructions for 1 egg equal.
PRO TIP: EGG REPLACERS IN VEGAN COOKIES
This private antidote comes from Maria, a longtime reader, “I used to be skeptical of boxed egg replacers at first—how might a powder do the job of an egg? However after utilizing one in a batch of cookies for a vegan pal, I used to be shocked at how effectively they held collectively. No bizarre style, no crumbly mess.”
She additionally added that “these replacers are tremendous dependable for baking and binding. Simply comply with the package deal directions as they’re often spot-on.”
8. Aquafaba
What It Is: The liquid from a can of chickpeas.
Makes use of: Meringues, mousse, or recipes needing whipped egg whites.
Ratio: 3 tbsp aquafaba = 1 egg
Shocking Perk: Whips identical to egg whites when overwhelmed.
See Additionally: 24 Intelligent Tricks to Save BIG on the Grocery Retailer
9. Nut Butter
Makes use of: Brownies, cookies, dense baked items.
Ratio: 3 tbsp = 1 egg
Notes: Works greatest in recipes the place the nutty taste enhances the dish.
10. Carbonated Water
Makes use of: Gentle, ethereal baked items (desserts, waffles).
Ratio: ¼ cup carbonated water = 1 egg
Why It Works: Provides raise and lightness—splendid when fluffiness is essential.
Ask the Reader: What free or low cost sources of eggs did I miss? Let me know and I’ll crack into your ideas and add them to my article.
By Kyle James
I began Somewhat-Be-Purchasing.com in 2000 and have change into a shopper skilled and advocate writing about out-of-the-box methods to save lots of at shops like Amazon, Walmart, Goal and Costco to call just a few. I’ve been featured on FOX Information, Good Morning America, and the NY Occasions speaking about my financial savings ideas. (Be taught extra)
