Farmers are not to blame for a more costly Memorial Day cookout this year

Your Memorial Day cookout will likely cost more this year. New numbers from Rabobank show they are hitting new highs but say it is not the fault of your neighborhood farmer.

“Inputs for farmers are up about 10% against the long-run averages on a real basis. But we’re also still in the process of realigning global trade flows. The era of unburdened shipping is behind us for now. At least. We are also seeing regulatory costs associated with changing ingredients around MAHA as one example. Another factor that companies are looking at, some are already reformulating to phase out food guides. Labor costs also remain elevated, nearly 1% above long-run averages,” said Tom Bailey.

Last year’s Memorial Day barbeque costs were up around two percent compared to 2023. This year, Rabobank says they are up more than four percent over last year’s gains.

Related Stories
These Easy Roast Beef Sliders are perfect for potlucks and parties, or a quick and easy dinner main dish you can prepare in advance. Thinly sliced Deli Roast Beef is sandwiched between rolls and baked with cheese until golden and delicious.
Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor military personnel who died while serving in the armed forces. We wanted to share some songs that honor this day and pay tribute to those soldiers.
The favorite foods of the political elite have enamored Americans for centuries. From finding out what the president sneaks for a midnight snack at the White House, or snickering at photos of candidates testing out local fare on the campaign trail — Americans love to watch our lawmakers eat!
In Arkansas, farm groups have partnered with lawmakers to help furloughed or unemployed members of the military find on-the-farm jobs.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Todd Miller, CEO of Head Honchos, shares about his business offering to ease agricultural labor shortages.
The National FFA Organization hosts the Washington Leadership Conference, where thousands of FFA members gather to learn how to be change makers in their communities.
Having a good read on fuel prices is a must during harvest, but one analyst says grain farmers should also be watching the crude oil markets.
National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew discusses the urgent need for aid as farm families face mounting input costs and long-term market uncertainty.
Bradley Roy was the youngest angler to compete in a Bassmaster Elite Series event. Now, he’s prepping to hit the water with MLF Hall of Famer Greg “The Rooster” Vinson in the Team Series Patriot Cup.
Stories like this remind us what FFA is all about — leadership, service, and growth.