Overall, food prices ended last year around two percent higher than in 2023. Looking ahead to the rest of the year, the USDA says they could see a drop.
“We are expecting them to grow by 1.3%, which is just one-tenth of a percent higher than what we saw in 2024, when grocery prices grew by 1.2%. And that’s lower than the long-term average over the past 20 years, which has seen an average annual growth of 2.6%,” said Economist Megan Sweitzer.
Egg prices, however, are expected to increase by 20% in the coming year.
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Expect modest relief on several produce lines, mixed protein trends into holiday buying, and softer veg-oil costs — a good week to sharpen forward buys selectively.
USDA will meet part of November SNAP benefits under court direction, citing insufficient funds for full payments.
America’s love for burgers depends on open markets. Without lean beef imports, prices would skyrocket, crushing demand and destabilizing the beef industry.
With core input inflation still hovering high, growers and retailers should plan pricing and promotions with tighter margins in mind — target early sales, leverage bundle deals, and secure logistics ahead of peak Halloween demand.
