USDA: Food prices still increasing

The department released a new forecast for grocery store prices for 2023.

This year, grocery store prices will be higher from a year ago. But USDA economists say the increases won’t be nearly as bad as last year.

Economist Matt MacLacklan predicts an increase of about 6% this year. “Without a major change in trends, we don’t expect to be going over 6%", he said. “For food at home, we are expecting prices increases to be between 4.4 and 6.1%. Right now, year to date, if we were to take just the average prices we have observed from July, we’re at 4.8% compared to 2022.”

Food shoppers last year saw grocery prices increase 11.5% from the previous year. The 6% estimate for this year is on top of that increase, as prices have not come down.

For next year, USDA estimates prices will increase another 2%.

Related Stories
David Fisher with the American Lamb Board joined us to discuss a new sustainability program designed to boost producer profitability while supporting stewardship practices.
David Gruchot with USDA APHIS joined us to discuss the growing threat of invasive pests and the steps individuals can take to help protect U.S. agriculture.
Seafood producers gain expanded access to USDA support programs.
Lawmakers say payments will support schools, infrastructure and public safety in rural communities.
The analysis models how trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz may continue to drive up the cost of fertilizer.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller joins us with an update on the most recent case of New World screwworm 90 miles from the U.S. Southern border.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Renowned farm broadcaster and friend of RFD-TV, Orion Samuelson, will undoubtedly be remembered for many things, but most of all, his work as a champion of America’s farmers and ranchers will define his legacy.
Corn demand is rising thanks to ethanol expansion, yet year-round E15 remains missing from the Farm Bill—leaving farmers questioning the policy gap.
RanchHer celebrated the invaluable contributions women leading the beef industry at their panel, “Your Path to Becoming a RanchHer,” Friday at NCBA CattleCon.