Food Prices Increase Slightly

The latest consumer price index shows grocery store food increased on average last month, but most of us probably didn't notice it; the increase was 0.1%.  However, those little monthly increases we've had this year do add up, so compared to a year ago we're paying 0.5% more for our groceries."

Annemarie Kuhns tracks food prices for USDA. She says even though average food prices are half a percent higher than they were a year ago, there are still products selling for less than last year at this time.

"Pork prices have declined 1-ppoint-4 percent. Other meats, which includes lunch meat and hotdogs, those prices have decreased 8 percent. Sauce and oils we're paying about one percent less than we did this time last year."

Where are we paying more? Beef, eggs, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, and prepared foods like soups, frozen entrees, and snacks.  Items where prices have held steady include poultry and dairy products.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com