Get Ready for Independence Day: Discover Which Favorite Fourth of July Foods Will Cost You More This Year!

As the Fourth of July approaches, many families are gearing up for barbecues, but it’s no secret that food prices are high. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), the average cost to host a gathering with 10 guests is about $70.92 this year. That’s just 30 cents less than last year, which was already a record high. When you break it down, that’s around $7.09 per person, making this one of the most expensive years since the AFBF started tracking prices in 2013.

The AFBF keeps track of popular summer barbecue items like cheeseburgers, chicken, pork chops, homemade potato salad, strawberries, and ice cream. Although these costs are rising, it doesn’t mean farmers are getting a bigger slice of the pie. In fact, farm profits are under pressure. AFBF economist Samantha Ayoub noted farmers get only about 15% of the retail food dollar. Expenses for running farms, including labor and transport, continue to rise.

Recent data shows a mixed bag for prices. Ground beef has increased by 4.4%, now costing $13.33 for 2 pounds. On the other hand, prices for pork chops and chips have actually gone down. Tight cattle supplies and tariffs on materials like steel and aluminum have pushed some prices higher, while an easing demand for potatoes has helped bring down chip costs. The ongoing challenges from bird flu are still affecting egg prices, even though they aren’t at the all-time highs seen earlier this year.

Experts suggest these high costs are causing more people to cook at home. A survey from the USDA reveals that nearly 70% of Americans are preparing more meals at home due to economic concerns. Social media has also shown a shift, with hashtags like #HomeCooking trending as users share delicious homemade barbecue recipes.

The AFBF is urging Congress to pass a new five-year farm bill to support farmers through protection measures, nutritional access for low-income families, and advancements in agricultural research. Zippy Duvall, AFBF President, emphasized the role of farmers in ensuring a stable food supply, advocating for stronger programs to help them adapt to ongoing challenges.

Here’s a quick look at how some popular barbecue items are priced this year compared to last:

– Ground beef (2 lbs): $13.33 (+4.4%)
– Chicken breasts (2 lbs): $7.79 (-0.5%)
– Pork chops (3 lbs): $14.13 (-8.8%)
– Potato salad (2.5 lbs): $3.54 (+6.6%)
– Pork and beans (32 oz): $2.69 (+8.2%)
– Ice cream (½ gallon): $5.69 (+0.7%)
– Strawberries (2 pints): $4.69 (+1.7%)

As you prepare for your July celebrations, consider these insights when planning your menu. Keeping an eye on prices and opting for home-cooked solutions can not only save money but also foster family moments around the grill.



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