The data shows that in 2022, when inflation was at its most recent peak, food prices rose 9.9%, the biggest cost increase since 1979. US Department of Agriculture. Inflation and supply chain disruptions have made it impossible for any factor to influence the rise in prices of goods.
In 2023, prices increased by 5.8%, but in five household food categories – seafood, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, cereals, bakery products, and other foods – prices in August 2024 increased by 2023. It was lower than in August. According to the category ‘Overview.
But even if prices have fallen, millions of Americans still struggle to pay for groceries. A recent poll by Savings.com One in three Americans is stressed about putting food on the table, and nearly 80% of American adults have reduced their grocery list due to high prices.
“Affordability is more important for healthy and nutritious foods, which can lead to higher prices,” the report said. “For example, the cost of transporting a truckload of canned goods is very different from transporting fresh meat or produce, which requires refrigeration throughout the journey. All of these costs are passed on to the consumer, and for economic reasons You may be forced to choose a lower option.”
The price of a healthy diet
In the United States, there are dramatic price differences when choosing between healthy and unhealthy foods, even between states. This was not always the case.
“After World War II, agricultural innovations created a food system that could produce and sell the most calories at the lowest cost to meet the needs that existed at the time.” food foundation. “In doing so, we have created another problem: mass-producing cheap food that causes disease and damages the environment. It shows that it is possible to modify the system to meet changing needs.”
in plush care A study comparing healthy food prices in each state found that Utahns spend an average of $10,742 a year on healthy food, compared to $3,575 on unhealthy food. The Beehive State is located roughly in the middle when compared to the rest of the United States.
According to the study, “Hawaii remains the state with the most restrictive agreements, requiring the average local employee to pay 28.76% of their salary to cover the cost of local healthy food.” “Washington State (17.38%) offers the most affordable healthy food, despite being 22nd in price rankings, with an average local salary of $59,925.”
Whether you pay higher prices or not, there are strategic ways to stay healthy without sacrificing your wallet.
of mayo clinic He gave the following advice for purchasing healthy food:
- Plan your meals before you go to the supermarket.
- Use your list to shop.
- Buy seasonal produce.
- Choose whole grains.
- Purchase items in bulk.
