Robin Garr wrote:Honestly, I'm having a hard time getting my mind wrapped around the idea that this is even an issue on a foodie forum where many of us understand the difficult economics of the restaurant business.
I'd add, though, that grocery prices specifically are dramatically outrunning prices in general. It's almost as if we don't have inflation these days except for food. I can tell you, though, that I put in volunteer time at a large monthly food pantry in the East End, and the number of visitors is way up with an increase mostly among people who have jobs but simply can't keep up with grocery bills.
My wife and I have good jobs and two kids, but the grocery bill every week has only risen year after year. I haven't gone to a food pantry yet, but it has crossed my mind. We spend about $200 every week, with $150 being strictly for food.
Ten years ago, we spent about $75 every week on just food, granted my kids were much younger and one was on baby food and formula, but that was $75 with baby food and formula.
Nothing else, except college tuition has jumped 100% in price over 10 years.
I could also veer off topic and ponder why chicken wings cost more than boneless/skinless chicken breast.