The price of keeping your pantry and refrigerator stocked isn't cheap these days, but while groceries are more expensive right now there is something you can do about it.
Data from the United States Department of Agriculture shows prices for staples like milk, meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables are up about 3 to 5 percent compared to last year. Beef has made the biggest jump, increasing by 10 percent from May to June.
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Experts say the coronavirus has impacted food supply chains that are unable to move inventory fast enough.
"We don't really have enough labor for the harvest of some goods," explained Tatiana Bailey, director of the UCCS Economic Forum. "We've had outbreaks in meat processing and chicken processing plants and that has increased prices, and then on top of that, there's a logistical issue -- we don't have the workers necessary to transport the goods."
To help you save at the grocery store:
- Shop at several different stores for the best deals.
- If you can, buy in bulk at warehouse stores.
- Consider downloading grocery apps and using reward programs.
