**BLUF: Price increases are expected for popular grocery items such as packaged meats, frozen breakfast foods, pickles, and chocolate due to various factors including labor costs and supply chain issues. American shoppers should be prepared for these rising costs and consider stocking up on these products to mitigate the impact of inflation.**
Major changes are occurring in US grocery stores, with many essential items expected to become more expensive as demand rises and supplies struggle to keep up. Oreo maker Mondelez and other big companies have already announced price increases for the latter half of 2023. Frozen pizzas, waffles, snack cakes, and other popular products will see significant price hikes that may come as a surprise to American shoppers in the coming months.
Packaged meats such as pepperoni, jerky, bacon, ham, and sausages will also experience price increases due to soaring labor costs, reduced workforce, and other operational difficulties faced by meat processors. Prices are changing rapidly, and these products are unlikely to become cheaper in the future. It is advisable to take advantage of any deals currently available and stock up on your favorite packaged meats to save money in the upcoming seasons.
Frozen breakfast foods are expected to see seasonal price changes as demand increases with children returning to school and cooler temperatures approaching. According to Walmart, the top grocer in the US, the demand for frozen breakfast foods is estimated to rise by 16.43 percent. As a result, prices for items like Great Value Buttermilk Pancakes, Eggo Original Waffles, and Kellogg’s Blueberry Waffles will increase in price by the end of the third quarter.
Great Value Hamburger Dill Chip Pickles currently sell for $2.67 per 32 fl oz jar, which is 8.7 percent higher than last year. However, the cost of producing and distributing pickles has been disrupted, and it is expected that the price will rise by 12 to 17 percent during the third and fourth quarters. Experts estimate that the cost of pickles will increase by 25 percent for the entire year. Stocking up on pickles when they are still affordable may help combat inflation and potential shortages.
Chocolate production has slowed down, and sugar costs have increased, leading to a decline in supplies. This is particularly concerning as Halloween approaches and holiday season recipes often require chocolate. CNBC reports that chocolate prices rose by 14 percent in June, and with the current high cost of cocoa in the global market, consumers should expect a significant increase in prices in the coming months.
Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the rising prices and higher consumer demand for these products. American shoppers should consider stocking up on favorites and taking advantage of any deals or discounts available to mitigate the impact of price hikes and potential shortages.Source…