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Grocery prices hit hard by inflation and not expected to come down anytime soon

Just when you thought groceries couldn't get any more expensive, new data shows food prices continue to skyrocket.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The price of groceries has risen more than 13% from last year, marking the largest 12-mont increase since 1979, new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows. 

The new numbers painted a very grim picture when it comes to food costs. Even the basics require a bigger budget thanks to the historic price increase over the past year

How much more are we talking? Well, if you want to buy eggs, you're paying 39.8% more than you did just a year ago. Milk is up 17% and bread costs 16.2% more than it did this time in 2021. 

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Those essentials aren't the only items going up. In fact, of the more than 100 grocery items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only two are less expensive than they were last year: uncooked beef steaks and tomatoes, and the savings aren't much. 

Steaks are down 3% and tomatoes aren't down even a penny on the dollar, dropping a measly 0.2% compared to last year. 

WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.

So what can you to do save money? One expert recommends buying more store brands. Those private labels can be up to 25% cheaper than their name-brand counterparts. 

Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.



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