Egg prices are affecting Easter traditions

SALT LAKE CITY — Would you dye marshmallows or even potatoes to save on egg prices this year? There are viral videos circling the internet of creative parents trying to combat soaring egg prices while keeping the beloved coloring tradition alive.

 

While at first glance, potatoes seem like a bizarre choice, people who have done it prefer them to eggs even when prices are normal.

“It just seems easier for little ones. No worries of egg shells cracking and making a neurodivergent child get anxious because they think they’ve broken it. And no worries about tiny cuts in their own skin,” said Amber Martin, a North Ogden mom.

Martin said she peels russet potatoes and uses a dollop of food coloring directly on the peeled potato. She lets her kids do as many colors as they want, to also teach them about mixing colors.

“It’s a learning experience as well as grand fun,” Martin said.

Some ‘biting the bullet’ to keep Easter traditions in place

Interestingly, it seems that a lot of people aren’t cutting back.

“We are still planning on dyeing eggs. We are just biting the bullet and going to go for it because there are just certain traditions that you can’t skip with little kids,” said Allie Schneiter, a Washington Terrace mom.

Egg dye company, PAAS, is reporting a record-high season. According to CBS News, PAAS has distributed 20% more egg decorating kits this year than last year.

The company said it’s because of high demand and a longer selling season. With Easter falling on April 20 this year, it’s almost a month later than it was in 2024.

But it’s unknown whether people are using that dye for eggs or the creative alternatives.