May’s food prices increased modestly — 0.3% overall — according to the most recent CPI report.
Food at home
The price index for food at home rose 0.3% last month. Fruits and vegetables were the only prices to decrease in May. This is the second month in a row that prices have dipped in the category. Meanwhile, nonalcoholic beverage prices surged.
- Meat, poultry, fish, and eggs: +0.8%
- Cereals and bakery products: +0.4%
- Dairy and related products: +0.7%
- Fruits and vegetables: -0.8%
- Nonalcoholic beverages: +1.2%
- Other food from home: No change
Over the past 12 months, the index for food at home has risen by 1.2% overall, with all six grocery store group indexes inflating. Prices for nonalcoholic beverages (+ 2.9%) and cereals and bakery products (+2.2%) increased the most over the past year.
Food away from home
Prices for food away from home prices are still on the rise. In May, the index saw a 0.2% increase.
- Limited service meals: +0.2%
- Full service meals: +0.2%
Small and steady price surges in the food away from home category have brought the 12-month unadjusted index change to 2.9%.
The index for all food has risen 2% in the past year.
