- Grocery prices have seen the biggest jump in 50 years, with a 33% increase since 2019 in U.S. cities.
- Americans are changing shopping habits: couponing, comparison shopping, cutting back on favorite foods, and using apps for deals.
- Reasons for price increases include the pandemic, supply chain issues, droughts, tariffs, and the Russia-Ukraine war.
- Regional price variations exist, with some cities experiencing higher inflation than others.
- Lower-income households are disproportionately affected, spending a larger share of income on food.
- Examples of adaptation: Apral Jack scouts deals and substitutes stores; Ada Torres swaps brands and reduces meat; Jack Chang uses generic products and food banks; Amanda Tabadero buys non-local produce and seeks discounts.
- Beef prices have surged 79% since 2019, leading to reduced demand and substitution with chicken and cold cuts.
- Food assistance programs like SNAP are crucial for many, but eligibility tightening has reduced enrollment.