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, with rice averaging 4,337 yen (approximately 194 RMB) for a 5-kilogram bag, remaining above 4,000 yen for 16 consecutive weeks [1][3] - The average wholesale price of medium-sized eggs in Tokyo has hit 324 yen (approximately 14.5 RMB) per kilogram, marking the highest price on record [3] - The price surge in staple foods is attributed to rising raw material costs, labor expenses, and the depreciation of the yen, leading to over 20,000 food items experiencing price increases this year [3] Industry Impact - The price increases have led consumers to seek alternatives for high-priced items, opting for cheaper substitutes like chicken, margarine, and carrots instead of beef, butter, and tomatoes [3] - Many consumers are now considering rice and eggs as luxury items, with some expressing reluctance to add eggs to their meals due to the high costs [3] - An estimated 3,600 food items are expected to see price hikes in early next year, indicating a continuing trend of inflation in the food sector [3]