日本米蛋价高不下 鸡蛋拌饭水涨船高

Core Insights - Japan's rice and egg prices have reached record highs, leading consumers to seek cheaper alternatives for these staple foods [1][2] Group 1: Price Increases - As of December 21, the average price of a 5-kilogram bag of rice in Japan was 4,337 yen (approximately 194 RMB), remaining above 4,000 yen for 16 consecutive weeks [1] - The average wholesale price of medium-sized eggs in Tokyo reached 324 yen per kilogram (approximately 14.5 RMB), marking the highest price on record [1] Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Many Japanese consumers are now considering eggs and rice as luxury items, with some expressing reluctance to add eggs to their meals, such as curry rice [1] - Consumers are opting for cheaper substitutes like chicken, margarine, and carrots instead of more expensive items like beef, butter, and tomatoes [2] - Due to the high rice prices, some individuals are replacing rice with noodles and bread [2] Group 3: Broader Economic Context - Japan is experiencing a food price surge, with over 20,000 food items having increased in price this year, and nearly 3,600 more expected to rise in early next year [1]