Hoosiers Brace for Rising Food Prices This Fourth of July: What You Need to Know

Indiana shoppers are facing slightly higher prices this summer as they plan their Fourth of July cookouts. According to the Indiana Farm Bureau, the average cost for food to serve ten people is $71.49, which comes to about $7.15 per person. This shows a 5% increase from last year.

Interestingly, Indiana’s price is just above the national average, which is $7.09 per person. Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist at the Indiana Farm Bureau, pointed out that inflation is easing. He noted, “Prices are leveling out, and supply chain issues from recent years are improving, leading to just a slight increase in costs.”

The market basket includes popular items like ground beef, cheese, hamburger buns, pork chops, chicken, potato salad, strawberries, chips, ice cream, cookies, and lemonade. Items like ice cream and strawberries saw the biggest price jumps, increasing by 31% and 19%, respectively. However, these rises align with national trends.

Most items in Indiana closely match the national prices. Interestingly, hamburger buns and lemonade are both about 8% cheaper here than elsewhere. Ground beef and pork chops are also more affordable in Indiana this year. Dr. Davis noted, “Look for deals on proteins. There’s more pork available, which keeps prices down.” Ground beef prices, however, remain steady due to low cattle herd numbers nationwide.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, only 16 cents out of every dollar spent on food goes back to farmers. The rest covers processing, packaging, transportation, and more. Janis Highley, a vice president of the Indiana Farm Bureau, emphasized that farmers have tight margins. Rising supply costs strain their bottom line.

Despite challenges, Indiana farmers are determined to streamline operations to cut production costs and ensure affordable food not just for Hoosiers but for families around the globe. The summer cookout survey, conducted by volunteers in early June, gathered prices from local grocery stores without using special discounts.

This Indiana survey aligns with a national effort led by the American Farm Bureau Federation. For more detailed national results, you can visit [American Farm Bureau’s website](https://www.fb.org).

As shoppers head out this summer, it’s essential to keep an eye on prices and look for the best bargains. With insights from experts and an understanding of market trends, you can make more informed choices for your cookout.

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