You're in the checkout line at the supermarket. You're buying the same foods you do every week, and your grocery bill is growing. Well, those costs could go even higher because of the drought.
The drought has certainly damaged the Tri-State corn crop and since the drought is so widespread, a less than normal harvest could drive up demand and prices. For families trying to stay on budget, those visits to the grocery are likely to be more expensive.
"Cookies, in the cookie aisle, crackers, those can be pricey. Cereal is also very expensive," said grocery shopper, Suzanne Wheeler Klein.
Those creeping prices are thanks to inflation.
Ricky Volpe, Research Economist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, says you can expect your grocery basket to cost 2.5% to 3.5% more over the course of this year.
"The reason why consumers are experiencing sticker shock is mostly because food prices are already high. We know that they rose a lot in 2011, and we're not expecting them to come down," Volpe said.
Inflation is especially hard to swallow for meat and fish. Volpe says prices are up across the board, particularly for beef and veal.
"The inventory of cattle and hogs in the U.S. was reduced quite a bit, and now we have strong and growing demand for these foods, and that's a recipe for high prices. There's no end in sight," Volpe said.
But there are ways to fight back. Jessica Patel with Bankrate.com suggests trying a less expensive cut of beef, or substituting poultry.
"You can get canned chicken now and canned fish and things like that, and even frozen fish and frozen meats. That can wind up saving you more," Patel said.
Other categories hit hard by inflation include fats and oils, cereal, bakery products, and packaged foods. To save dough, skip pre-portioned goodies and bag your own snacks. Also, look beyond what's at eye level.
"A lot of times if you're in a rush you'll just grab it and go. You can look above or below that eye level and a lot of times find bargains and deals," Patel said.
The silver lining is dairy, eggs, and fresh fruits and vegetables, where Volpe expects to see smaller increases over 2012.
"Vegetables across the board are down. Lettuce is down about 21%. Tomatoes are down about 29%," Volpe said.
Boost your bottom line even more by grabbing what's in season. Finally, don't knock tried and true savings strategies.
"Buying in bulk, buying when things are on sale, looking at the local circulars, clipping coupons; they all really help to add up," Patel said.
Buying meat in bulk and eating leftovers has paid off for Klein.
"I just try to make sure that we finish off what is in the refrigerator," Klein said.
Here's one more tip: swing by the bakery on your way to the checkout line. You could find day-old rolls, muffins, and breads at a discount.
To see information about food costs, head to the USDA's website.
Copyright 2012 WFIE. All rights reserved.
