Grocery costs are rising nationwide at a faster rate than we've seen for the past 18 years. According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, within the last year food prices as a whole have increased about 3%. More startling, milk prices have escalated 20 percent, tomatoes have increased 20 percent, and eggs are up a staggering 25 percent.

Why is this?

Rising fuel costs are an easy target for the blame. It's not just at the Hess or Sunoco that gas is making a bigger dent in our wallets. Increased fuel costs lead to increased transportation costs, which make up a large fraction of many costs. Compounding the problem, as oil prices have risen, there has been an increased demand for ethanol as an alternative fuel, which has pushed corn and other commodity prices higher.

Additionally, although Bostonians have come to love fresh fruits and produce through all months of the year, many of the developing nations that provide much of the off-season fresh fare are now exporting less. As the U.S dollar has weakened and demand for food within their countries has increased along with their incomes, exporters are exacting a higher price.

With the increased grocery prices, many Boston residents are now being forced to "shop around" for the best deal on particular food items at different supermarkets. In a recent study, TAB reporters compared food prices at local grocery markets. For produce in particular, Trader Joes and Super 8 offered the most competitive prices, whereas Shaw's supermarket had the best prices for the staples of milk, bread, eggs, and meat. Stop and Shop had the lowest-priced options for orange juice, brownies and turkey. Some shoppers are now choosing to travel to multiple grocery stores to get the best possible prices.

Can we expect these prices to stop rising? In the near term, this seems unlikely, as the transport, commodity, and export trends are doubtful to change within the next couple of years. Ultimately, as we find new ways to bring food to market, potentially from more local operations or from different crops that are easier to transport, we may see some food prices level off or decline. Until then, Bostonians will have to learn how to get around the higher prices.

-
Average changes in food prices from 2006 to 2007 at Shaws Supermarket:

Butter (1 pound)
2006- $2.79
2007- $3.52

Orange Juice
2006- $2.89
2007- $3.79

Milk (1 gallon)
2006- $2.04
2007- $3.09

Learn more about this author, Bella Cooper.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Rising food prices - A global concern?
We want to hear your view. Write now!