Statewide, Iowa – Despite outcries about high grocery prices, an American Farm Bureau Federation survey finds the cost of a typical Independence Day meal for a family of 10 fell slightly from last year.
Christopher Pudenz (POO-dins), an economist with the Iowa Farm Bureau, says they based the study on an array of foods many of us will be enjoying on a picnic table beside the grill this Fourth of July weekend.
While some items are more expensive than during the Fourth of July weekend last year, the prices on others have dropped.
That total is down 30 cents from last year, which was the highest priced meal at $71.22. Tariffs impacted the costs on some items this year, while other market influences brought more price stability.
The price also fell from last year on potatoes and wheat, meaning the prices for potato salad and buns were cheaper. He notes how higher prices at the grocery store don’t necessarily translate to farmers making more money.
Despite that, he says Iowa farmers remain resilient, continuing to meet demand and provide a stable food supply.
KIWA Staff Photo
