WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) – Consumer prices rose faster than expected in August, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increasing 0.4 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Thursday. That brought annual inflation to 2.9 percent, up from July’s 2.6 percent.
Food and shelter were the biggest drivers. Grocery prices jumped 0.6 percent last month, while restaurant meals rose 0.3 percent, pushing food inflation to 3.2 percent over the year. Housing costs climbed 0.4 percent in August and are now up 3.6 percent compared with a year ago.
Energy prices rose 0.7 percent, led by gasoline, though natural gas costs fell. Core inflation, which strips out food and energy, increased 0.3 percent in August and 3.1 percent year-over-year.
The report also showed increases in airline fares, used cars, and apparel, while medical care and recreation costs edged lower.
The 2026 Farm Bill advances out of committee, but political divisions delay final passage as lawmakers push to protect farmers, SNAP, and crop insurance programs.
April 01, 2026 10:59 AM
·
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler breaks down the Grocery Guarantee Program, its goals for expanding farmer access to capital, and its potential impact on food production and prices.
March 31, 2026 11:36 AM
·
Strong Easter demand supports protein and crop markets.
March 31, 2026 10:00 AM
·
manage risk as milk price volatility increases.
March 27, 2026 09:00 AM
·
AFBF Economist Danny Munch breaks down a new Farm Bureau analysis showing that producers now earn less than 6 cents of every food dollar, as farm input costs continue to squeeze margins.
March 26, 2026 04:44 PM
·
Recent USDA reports show a steady feedlot supply despite growing consumer demand for beef, ahead of typical seasonal summer trends.
March 25, 2026 03:22 PM
·
