Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported that chicken thigh and egg prices reached record highs in May 2024 [1, 3].
These price surges reflect a broader trend of inflation-driven consumer behavior, where shoppers are abandoning more expensive proteins in favor of cheaper alternatives. This shift in demand, combined with currency fluctuations, is placing unprecedented pressure on the cost of basic staples for Japanese households.
According to a food price trend survey, the average store price for chicken thigh rose to between 154 yen [2] and 155 yen [1] per 100 grams. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries said that demand concentrated on chicken because it is relatively cheaper than pork or beef, which pushed store prices higher [1].
Eggs also hit a historic peak, reaching 309 yen per pack [3]. Meanwhile, imported beef prices climbed to 435 yen per 100 grams [1].
Several economic and environmental factors contributed to the spike. A weak yen increased the cost of imported animal feed, while a drought in the U.S. reduced cattle numbers, further driving up the cost of imported beef [1, 4].
Agriculture Minister Norikazu Suzuki said that consumer demand is shifting from beef and pork to chicken due to a desire to save money amid high prices [4].
“Chicken thigh and egg prices reached record highs in May 2024.”
The simultaneous peak of chicken, egg, and beef prices indicates a 'substitution effect' where the pursuit of cheaper proteins eventually drives up the cost of those alternatives. When combined with external shocks like U.S. droughts and the weakening yen, Japan's food security becomes more vulnerable to global supply chain volatility and currency instability.
