Food Prices Going Up
USDA food price analysts say their earlier predictions for higher food prices were pretty accurate. But they are making changes in the forecast for meat prices.
Last year the pandemic lead to a grocery price increased of 3.5%, much higher than the average price hike. Economists are predicting continuing increases for 2021 and 2022.
USDA economist, Carolyn Chelius says this year we’ll spend between 2 and 3% more on our groceries than in 2020 and even more for things like burgers and bacon.
Chelius: “ We increased forecasts by 1% so now we’re predicting beef and veal prices will increase 3 to 4% and pork prices will increase 4% to 5%. “
Poultry will cost an additional 2.5% to 3.5%
Costs for livestock feed and fuels are up and demand is also soaring according to the USDA.
Consumers in Florida pay 1.8% below the national average for groceries. Recent price wars have slashed food bills for many shoppers there. Florida is 31st in most expensive states for food prices.
Georgia is 34th for grocery costs.
Grocery prices in Alabama families typically pay 3% below the nationwide average. Alabama is 36th on the list of food costs by state.
