CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If you’ve been to the grocery store lately, you know – food is expensive. According to the latest data from the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics some of the most basic items have dramatically increased in price in the period of one year, but why?
AARP outlined the 5 grocery store basics costing you more right now and the reasons for each price increase.
1. Butter
The cost of butter has increased 21.3% from June 2021 according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. AARP found that the increase is partly due to the pandemic’s impact on restaurants. The demand for butter dropped during the height of the coronavirus pandemic when restaurants were forced to close & production hasn’t bounced back to pre-pandemic times.
2. Eggs
The price has increased 33.1% AARP lists an outbreak of bird flu and the cost of chicken feed as reasons why.
3. Milk
The price of this staple has increased 16.4% from June 2021. AARP states that increased feed costs and labor costs are to blame for the price hike.
4. Coffee
This morning must-have is now 15.8% more expensive now than it was in June 2021. According to AARP, the majority of coffee in the US comes from Brazil and the area had a dry growing season which has impacted the price along with an increase in shipping costs.
5. Bread
A number of factors causing bread to increase in price – by 10.8% since June 2021. AARP lists the increased cost of labor and energy as some of the reasons for the price hike along with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Those areas produce 28% of the wheat supply.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.
Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.