Reports say grocery prices are on the rise despite reports that inflation is cooling

Inflation is falling but buying food can still be expensive. 

Grocery prices have risen 21% in the last three years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Andrea Leo, who owns Sun Market grocery store in Denver, says she does her best to keep food prices low, so customers will continue to come in.

WHY ARE GROCERIES STILL SO EXPENSIVE?

“Sometimes I pay more for potatoes than I am charging. Same with milk. I make like 10 cents on milk. But it’s more important for me to have it affordable so that people can come in,” Leo said.

Leo said inflation had the biggest impact on the grocery store prices of her poultry and produce. To help, she donates some for free to families in need. 

FED’S FAVORITE INFLATION GAUGE ROSE 0.3% IN JANUARY

“I want to have something for everyone. No matter what their budget,” Leo said.

Dr. Kishore Kulkarni is an Economics professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver.  Kulkarni says that even if you don’t notice a price hike, you should watch out for shrinking products. 

“We should look at the packets. Make sure that your product size has not gone down and you are paying the right price for the right product,” Kulkarni said.

Kulkarni said inflation is hovering between 2% and 3% nationally, but economists say some food prices remain inflated by up to 10%.

HIGH INFLATION IS STILL SQUEEZING AMERICANS’ BUDGETS

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Customers shopping at grocery stores said they try to find the best deals by shopping at multiple stores.

Shopper Diane Santorico said she is feeling the pains of food inflation. Santorico says her family plans out their meals and does their best to mix it up. 

“Really being careful about where we spend our money. It’s coming down to the necessities and trying to eat healthy is even harder,” Santorico said.

Grocery prices surged 21% in the last three years, surpassing the overall 18% pace of inflation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.