Expect higher prices for Super Bowl spreads this year

By Casey Harper (Center Square)

The Super Bowl has become something of an annual holiday for Americans, full of football, food and drink, but a recent spike in food prices means Super Bowl gatherings will cost Americans more than ever.

Although price data is not available for all common brands, recent data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that food prices have risen over the past two years, outstripping the price increases of other goods and services.

According to data released in January, food prices rose 10.4% compared to last year.

For example, deviled eggs may be off limits because egg prices have soared in the past year, up 59.9%.

“The rest of the major grocery store food groups increased from 7.7 percent (meat, poultry, fish and eggs) to 15.3 percent (dairy and related products),” the BLS said.

Alcohol also increased. BLS data for all urban consumers show that “beer, ale, and other malt beverages at home” increased 8.6% over the past year while alcoholic beverages overall rose about 6%.

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Cheese dip may be a little pricey this year for some consumers. “Cheese and related products” grew by 12.8% last year.

Fruit and vegetable platters will be more expensive, with fresh fruit and vegetable prices increasing by 6.4%.

Americans may be tempted to skip fresh foods and freeze them, but frozen and freeze-dried prepared foods have grown 15% in the past year. And the snack category also grew by 11%.

Americans ordering takeout this Sunday won’t avoid high prices. BLS data shows the “meals away from home” index rose 8.3%.

There are some bright spots for American football fans. For example, according to a Wells Fargo report, the price of chicken wings has decreased. However, overall chicken prices have increased.

Burgers may also be a good choice, as uncooked beef increased 0.7% last year, according to the BLS.

Syndicated with permission from Center Square.

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