Inflation has had a hold of the economy for nearly three years, and it is directly impacting how consumers navigate grocery stores.
A study by Purdue University shows inflation is causing more consumers to seek out deals, and they are switching to cheaper or generic brands. 56 percent of consumers reported their food prices have risen the most compared to other household expenses.
This month’s Consumer Price Index showed food inflation was up a little more than 2 percent on the year.
Related Stories
Freight Softens as Producers Plan 2026 Budgets Nationwide
“I’m not sure where this bridge goes,” trader Brady Huck with Advanced Trading told RFD-TV News earlier this week.
CoBank’s 2026 Year Ahead Report cites global grain oversupply, easing inflation, rate cuts, and major data center growth that could reshape rural America.
Plan for sharp, short-term volatility after unexpected outages; permanent closures rarely trigger major price spread disruptions.
Ethanol output softened, but underlying supply-and-demand trends indicate stable longer-term use despite short-term volatility in blending and exports.
Strong Farm Credit finances help cushion producers, but prolonged low crop margins could strain renewals in 2026.
