This week, we saw much of the summer produce go by the wayside as retailers filled up their bins with fall favorites. As inflation continues to show signs of cooling off, some food items are still a little higher than the average consumer would like.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food expenditures are up nearly 13% in 2022. Overall, the report said expenditures increased faster than income in 2022. Average annual income before taxes rose 7.5% in 2022, while expenditures increased by 9%. The increase was also driven by food-away-from-home (restaurant) spending, up 20.1%, accompanied by an increase in food-at-home spending (grocery), up 8.4%. The average consumer spent $406 on fresh fruit in 2022, up 7.4% from $378 in 2021, according to the report. For fresh vegetables, average expenditures in 2022 were $352, 7.3% above $328 in 2021.
Mexico's crossings of asparagus 2023 crop through Arizona, California, and Texas are expected to remain about the same. Trading slow. Prices lower. 11-pound cartons/crates bunched green jumbo 21.75-22.75, large mostly 16.75-18.75, and standard mostly 14.75-18.75. Extra services included. Wide range in quality.
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Source: mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov