吃不起的玉米蛋挞，到底谁在买？

Core Viewpoint - The rising price of corn egg tarts has sparked significant consumer dissatisfaction, highlighting broader industry issues related to pricing and consumer perception of value [2][4][27]. Group 1: Price Discrepancies - The purchase price of corn is around 1 yuan per pound, while a corn egg tart can sell for as much as 48 yuan each, illustrating a stark contrast in pricing [2][16]. - Different vendors have varying pricing for corn egg tarts, with some high-end shops charging between 20 to 48 yuan, while chain bakeries like Baoshifu offer them for about 8 yuan each [16][18]. - The cost of materials for a corn egg tart is estimated to be around 5-6 yuan, raising questions about the justification for higher retail prices [18]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - The phenomenon of consumers flocking to try corn egg tarts reflects a common trend of following popular food items, often leading to disappointment when the product does not meet expectations [12][15]. - Social media plays a crucial role in driving consumer interest and trends, with the corn egg tart topic generating significant engagement on platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu [11][26]. - The perception of value is critical, as many consumers express dissatisfaction when the taste does not align with the high price they paid [15][27]. Group 3: Industry Trends - The emergence of corn egg tarts as a trending item is part of a cyclical pattern in the baking industry, where new products frequently replace previous favorites [7][32]. - The corn egg tart has become a significant draw for bakeries, with its popularity leading to increased sales and foot traffic [28][40]. - The baking industry is characterized by a mix of high-priced trendy items and stable, affordable products, with consumer sensitivity to price influencing purchasing decisions [33][34]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The corn egg tart's rise in popularity is attributed to its novelty and the marketing strategies employed by bakeries, which often capitalize on social media trends [20][24]. - The sustainability of such trendy products is uncertain, as many do not maintain their popularity over time, leading to a potential return to more stable pricing for everyday baked goods [35][39]. - Successful long-term products in the baking industry often balance quality and affordability, moving away from the high-price trend to meet consumer expectations [40][43].