FOOD Report food & grocery shortages / price increases here: 2024 Edition

[phloydius]

This is a new/continuation of the threads from the previous years (2021-2023).

Post up your personal grocery getting experience as we enter the years after the pandemic and ongoing political turmoil.
Shortages, price increases, runs, deliveries, finds, and what's new or back to normal at the grocery store, let us know what's happening in your AO.

Please include at least a general idea of a location!

 

[phloydius]

Thread of 2021:

ECON - Report food and grocery price increases/shortages here: 2021 Edition

This is a new/continuation of the thread from the height of the pandemic. Same thing or idea. Post up your grocery getting experience as we enter the year during pandemic and political turmoil. Shortages, runs, deliveries, finds, and what's new or back to normal at the grocery store, let us know...

www.timebomb2000.com

Thread of 2022:

FOOD - Report food & grocery shortages / price increases here: 2022 Edition

This is a new/continuation of the thread from the previous year (2021). Post up your grocery getting experience as we enter the year during pandemic and political turmoil. Shortages, runs, deliveries, finds, and what's new or back to normal at the grocery store, let us know what's happening in...

www.timebomb2000.com

Thread of 2023:

FOOD - Report food & grocery shortages / price increases here: 2023 Edition

This is a new/continuation of the thread from the previous years (2021-2022). Post up your personal grocery getting experience as we enter the year during pandemic and political turmoil. Shortages, runs, deliveries, finds, and what's new or back to normal at the grocery store, let us know...

www.timebomb2000.com

 

[nomifyle]

While everything seems high, I don't see many increases lately, just too expensive anyway. North central Louisiana

 

[Loretta Van Riet]

Eagerly awaiting new posts.

 

[Knoxville's Joker]

I can get a price list from a local meat wholesaler and get it scanned in.

 

[WalknTrot]

Haha...adding to this thread to keep it on the main page so people start using it instead of last year's.

The local meat shop has had a special on 80/20 10lb burger rolls @ $2.99/lb. the past two weeks to help people out. They freely admit that it is from a wholesale supplier, not their home processed - but still good quality. (Their hand-ground on-site has been held to $3.99/lb. so far). From the comments, seems people are loading up. Will have to get over there this week to test it out. Should make good meatloaf, chili and hotdish.

 

[phloydius]

Haha...adding to this thread to keep it on the main page so people start using it instead of last year's.

Thank you. I requested the mods close the 2023 thread as well.

The local meat shop has had a special on 80/20 10lb burger rolls @ $2.99/lb. the past two weeks to help people out. They freely admit that it is from a wholesale supplier, not their home processed - but still good quality. (Their hand-ground on-site has been held to $3.99/lb. so far). From the comments, seems people are loading up. Will have to get over there this week to test it out. Should make good meatloaf, chili and hotdish.

I also noticed this about ground beef (mostly 80/20 and 85/15), have come down about a dollar per pound in the last couple of weeks at the local HEB. I was not expecting it to dip down again before the price skyrockets later this year. Grabbing some more!

Edited to Add:

HEB Sparkling Water, 12pk: Jan 2020 $2.74, now $4.43.
Bush's Refried Beans, can: Jan 2020 $1.28, now $1.71.
HEB Grain Free Dog Food 18lbs (now 15lbs): Jan 2020 $18.42, now $24.21.
Plastic Forks: Jan 2020 $1.03, now $1.56.

Zesty Dill Pickles: Jan 2021 $2.04, now $3.09
Generic Free & Clear Laundry Soap, 100oz: Jan 2021 $10.28, now $11.94.

 

[Milk-maid]

Went to Krogers a few weeks ago before Christmas and they had a poor selection (if the product was even there) Butter seems to be non-existent.
Closer to Christmas they must have pulled out everything they were storing in the back since all of a sudden there was all sorts of food. I think they were holding it back.
However, still no Simple Truth Organic butter. Very little Kerry Gold butter. Did the cows stop milking?
(Southwest Virginia)

 

[bracketquant]

The latest shrinkage - some ice cream is now 1.44 quarts, down from 1.5.

I don't even know why they bother to reduce it by such a small amount. I think that I'll compare calories of the old with the new. Perhaps they are skimping on ingredients, too.

 

[Weft and Warp]

We stocked up on 80% Ground beef the week before Christmas since it was on sale for $2.49/Lb.
Chicken breasts were on sale for 0.88/Lb-- couldn't pass that one by!
I saw that the cabbage was only 39 cents/lb--- haven't seen them that low for several years. I was so tempted to buy some to make my own sauerkraut, but I was too busy with company coming that I didn't buy any. Maybe they'll still have some at that price now, I'll have to check.

 

[hd5574]

We made a short run to Walmart on December 30th.....prices were still outrageous....I was able to get a bag of smaller size yellow onions...I have saved and frozen hunks of beef from the Christmas rib roast..and plan to make an Irish stew...that will last us for more two meals..good potatoes were non existent..

Was able to get two pounds of Jimmy Dean sage sausage for $3.79 ....it has been a little over $5.00 per pound at most of the grocery stores ...I can made two meals for the two of us out of a pound...it alsi seems to the brand with least fat so more sausage when cooked...
Walmart was very picked over ..

When you compare the price of that one $40 cheese burger.....my Christmas rib roast shines ...got it at Giant Food in central Virginia on sale with coupon for $28.... it was a three bone roast ...we have had two meals from it and now I will get two more.from the stew...so will be a total 4 meals for the two of us. ..just adding a few sides

We are going to Giant Food to get gasoline today ..we get points when we shop there and have $0.60 cents off per gallon...

We also have a $0.99 per pound ham in the fridge..from them.... will check their meat sales..in hopes of finding a deal

Also checking the web for more new casserole and soup recipes that really stretch things out..
Happy New Year to all

 

[packyderms_wife]

Went out to lunch with my bestie on Friday, Wasbi Ames, for sushi, etc., I spent $39 on myself, I think she spent about a dollar or two more... this did include the tip and we had water as our beverage. We used to go out once a month, now it's more like twice a year cause it's just so danged expensive.

 

[nomifyle]

I haven't been to walmart since December 7. got a list going that I constantly revise. I messed up on paying a bill before the closing date, so I had to pay the new balance with my grocery money. Fortunately I don't actually need anything.

 

[Doomer Doug]

Tillamook Ice Cream is $9 a pint today Safe way down town Portland. 1 pound pasta is $3 each. Both are up se veral $ the last 3 days. 30% price increases a cross the board at least here. Spaghetti is a staple middle class food. Remember food riots arab started for less. Seriously are we looking at food riots with 30% food increases?

 

[anna43]

I am going to try NOT to buy groceries during January to help my budget recover from crazy expenses in November and December. The $4300 furnace and $1600 tooth cap were not planned expenses for 2023!!!

I anticipate more food shortages during 2024 based on reports from markets around the world in the last few months. As far as food prices, I think that is a very unstable and unpredictable situation that could explode at any time. I do NOT anticipate prices going lower! I have raised my monthly food budget from $130 (2023) to $140 for this year. My average monthly spending for food in 2023 was $138.33 so obviously the $130 amount wasn't sufficient. I sort of doubt $140 is going to be a comfortable budget, but I will make it work. I've gone back to cash envelopes for food and miscellaneous to help me stay within my budget.

Tillamook Ice Cream is $9 a pint today Safe way down town Portland. 1 pound pasta is $3 each. Both are up se veral $ the last 3 days. 30% price increases a cross the board at least here. Spaghetti is a staple middle class food. Remember food riots arab started for less. Seriously are we looking at food riots with 30% food increases?

I think food riots are possible. I think riots in general are quite likely. People are on edge about prices, politics and many other issues so I don't think it will take much to send people over the top. People are not prepared with food and other supplies in their homes and are not emotionally prepared to face hard times. It might not be food prices, it might be maxed out credit and lack of ability to buy.

 

[bracketquant]

Tillamook Ice Cream is $9 a pint today Safe way down town Portland. 1 pound pasta is $3 each. Both are up se veral $ the last 3 days. 30% price increases a cross the board at least here. Spaghetti is a staple middle class food. Remember food riots arab started for less. Seriously are we looking at food riots with 30% food increases?

The American herd will not stampede. They'll sub rice for pasta.

 

[tnphil]

The latest shrinkage - some ice cream is now 1.44 quarts, down from 1.5.

I don't even know why they bother to reduce it by such a small amount. I think that I'll compare calories of the old with the new. Perhaps they are skimping on ingredients, too.

Speaking of shrinkage-I just saw the latest in the paper products scam... now Charmin is boasting "16=96" super-mega rolls of toilet paper. "* compared to regular rolls". Seriously? I have yet to see one of those mystery "regular" rolls, apparently 1/6 the size of the super-mega. Must be around 2 inches in diameter.

I guess the reason manufacturers think people are stupid and gullible is because so many have proven to be so.

 

[nomifyle]

I haven't bought zip loc bags in awhile and I am in shock at how much they cost now. I use to could buy a box of 4 at sams for the price of one now. Fortunately I'm not out but I was looking to put some more away,

 

[Carlyblue]

Our Piggly Wiggly hasn't had any cherry tomatoes for over 2 weeks. I'm hoping the deliveries are delayed due to the holidays.

 

[moldy]

Since 2019 or so, early in January I visit our independent grocer and buy 6 things so I can track prices. I have the breakdown for 2021,2022, and today. (2023 I was getting chemo - it was not a priority):

	2021	2022	2024
One gallon whole milk	3.09	3.19	3.99
one pound dried navy beans	1.19	1.29	2.35
one pound LG rice	1.29	.99	1.09
1 loaf white sandwich bread	1.51	1.39	1.89
13 oz Folger's coffee	4.97	4.59 (10.3 oz)	6.09 (9.6 oz)
12pack Charmin TP (strong)	8.27	12.99	13.69

Surprisingly, there is a large price difference between soft and strong TP. The coffee keeps dropping in size (surprise). Just thought you all might be interested in my semi-scientific study.

ETA; NE Colorado

 

[ivantherussian03]

We bought two giant hams for 8 dollars each.

 

[Barry Natchitoches]

My local WalMart had a huge end cap of Gold Medal flour in the 5 pound bags: Roll Back price $1.50, from $4.36 previous price.

Does this mean the flour shortage is about over?

 

[SAPPHIRE]

It probably is repackaging into smaller unit......and the "old" size needs to be absent...no comparison...

 

[bracketquant]

I am going to try NOT to buy groceries during January to help my budget recover from crazy expenses in November and December. The $4300 furnace and $1600 tooth cap were not planned expenses for 2023!!!

I anticipate more food shortages during 2024 based on reports from markets around the world in the last few months. As far as food prices, I think that is a very unstable and unpredictable situation that could explode at any time. I do NOT anticipate prices going lower! I have raised my monthly food budget from $130 (2023) to $140 for this year. My average monthly spending for food in 2023 was $138.33 so obviously the $130 amount wasn't sufficient. I sort of doubt $140 is going to be a comfortable budget, but I will make it work. I've gone back to cash envelopes for food and miscellaneous to help me stay within my budget.


I think food riots are possible. I think riots in general are quite likely. People are on edge about prices, politics and many other issues so I don't think it will take much to send people over the top. People are not prepared with food and other supplies in their homes and are not emotionally prepared to face hard times. It might not be food prices, it might be maxed out credit and lack of ability to buy.

My local WalMart had a huge end cap of Gold Medal flour in the 5 pound bags: Roll Back price $1.50, from $4.36 previous price.

Does this mean the flour shortage is about over?

I never saw any shortage on flour, other than at times at WalMart. I have 5 supermarkets in town.

Christmas cookie baking season over?

 

[Marseydoats]

It probably is repackaging into smaller unit......and the "old" size needs to be absent...no comparison...

This.
Everything in my store has already switched to 4 lb bags...

 

[FREEBIRD]

I haven't bought zip loc bags in awhile and I am in shock at how much they cost now. I use to could buy a box of 4 at sams for the price of one now. Fortunately I'm not out but I was looking to put some more away,

Used to be able to get Ziploc brand plastic food containers in some groceries here. Absolutely none available anywhere. Vanished off the face of the earth.

 

[Knoxville's Joker]

Used to be able to get Ziploc brand food containers in some groceries here. Absolutely none available anywhere. Vanished off the face of the earth.

Umm…china is facing a manufacturing collapse. The factory they were made in may have closed die to relocation

 

[Babs]

Since 2019 or so, early in January I visit our independent grocer and buy 6 things so I can track prices. I have the breakdown for 2021,2022, and today. (2023 I was getting chemo - it was not a priority):

	2021	2022	2024
One gallon whole milk	3.09	3.19	3.99
one pound dried navy beans	1.19	1.29	2.35
one pound LG rice	1.29	.99	1.09
1 loaf white sandwich bread	1.51	1.39	1.89
13 oz Folger's coffee	4.97	4.59 (10.3 oz)	6.09 (9.6 oz)
12pack Charmin TP (strong)	8.27	12.99	13.69

Surprisingly, there is a large price difference between soft and strong TP. The coffee keeps dropping in size (surprise). Just thought you all might be interested in my semi-scientific study.

This is a really good idea. I'm a bookkeeper, so I keep ALL my receipts for many years. When I get a chance, I think I'm going to create a spreadsheet of the items I purchase on a regular basis, going back a few years. I'll post it here when I get it done...but we're gearing up for tax season, so it might be a minute.

 

[StarryEyedLad]

I was in Dollar General last week, and nearly everything that I looked at had gone up in price by at least 50 cents or a full dollar since the last time I was there this past autumn.

 

[Marseydoats]

Mid South Aldi this AM
Someone wanted a price comparison, so here's what I've got

Gallon whole milk $3.01
Dozen white eggs 1.51
ground beef 73/20 $3.49 a pound

I get eggs from my neighbor and I pay a local non GMO farm a little over $6 a pound for their ground beef. I have severe food allergies and I can't eat meat from the store.
I have never seen Aldi so crowded on a Thurs morning, even though we are expecting a bad winter storm this weekend. Everybody had loaded carts, but most of them were buying things they had to cook. I guess everyone is gambling on the power not going out.
They had the take and bake pizzas we like, the last several times I've been they were out.
My friend in Kansas says they're still limiting what she can buy (no flats of veggies) I'm beginning to wonder if the cashiers are just messing with her.

 

[anna43]

The American herd will not stampede. They'll sub rice for pasta.

Have you not heard about the worldwide rice shortage ?

 

[bracketquant]

Have you not heard about the worldwide rice shortage ?

I've heard of it, but have not seen it.

Stores, here, have pallets upon pallets of 10, 20, and 50 pound bags.

2 years ago, .39/lb was the low, mid-2023 it was .99/lb (a bit worrisome that a shortage might start to appear), today it is .59/lb.

With prices much higher, the fairly poor minorities in this area, who consume most of the rice (outside of the wealthy, who buy Jasmine), likely can't afford to buy and eat as much. Perhaps that is why there is no shortage , here.

 

[Bad Hand]

I love those pork skins they went from $2.09 to $4.29. The worst one is bacon the meat dept at the local grocery store always had 3 types of bacon for the last 3 days they have been out. I asked when they would be getting more in, the butcher said he had no idea. Life without bacon isn't worth living.
All of the shelves had huge empty gaps it was looking rather grim. I always buy flour and sugar in 25# bags then store in 5 gallon buckets. I buy powder sugar and brown sugar buy the case. I buy iodized salt buy the case and plain salt (feed mixing salt) by the 50# bag. I have rice and beans in 25# bags stored.
I have a pasta machine so pasta is not a problem.

 

[tnphil]

Speaking of shrinkage-I just saw the latest in the paper products scam... now Charmin is boasting "16=96" super-mega rolls of toilet paper. "* compared to regular rolls". Seriously? I have yet to see one of those mystery "regular" rolls, apparently 1/6 the size of the super-mega. Must be around 2 inches in diameter.

I guess the reason manufacturers think people are stupid and gullible is because so many have proven to be so.

Needed to pick up a couple of things today. I re-examined the Charmin scam.
A "super mega" roll is 336 sheets, 6 times the amount of a "regular" roll.

Seriously... they are telling us that a "regular" roll of toilet paper is 56 sheets.

This is how stupid they think we are.

 

[Reasonable Rascal]

Seriously... they are telling us that a "regular" roll of toilet paper is 56 sheets.

This is how stupid they think we are.

Some people are, and they vote. Not infrequently several times each.

RR

 

[packyderms_wife]

 

[Bad Hand]

Have you noticed how much narrower the toilet paper rolls?
Power outage won't really effect me I have different types of camp stoves, wood stoves, oil lamps and lanterns lived without out electric for years.

 

[Murt]

I read that a european grocery chain named Carrefour has pulled or is pulling all pepsico brands because of the price increases
pepsico has a lot of brands --pepsi-7 up--Lays products and quaker

 

[tnphil]

Apparently Charmin does make "regular rolls", just haven't seen them in stores. Yep, 56 sheets/roll. $3.77 for 4, plus $9.99 shipping.

Ultra Strong Regular Roll

You’ll love not having to constantly change the toilet paper. There's nothing to lose but the hassle.

shop.charmin.com

 

[psychgirl]

If you can get to a Kroger store they’re practically giving away all hams! Huge ones, spiral, all kinds.
I got a very large ham for 5.75$ for the freezer. I think turkeys are on sale too.

It’s holiday foods/meats they are pushing.

Tyson chicken on sale as are whole pork tenderloins and loins.
Bacon
Toiletries, pasta sauces, rice…

Lot of meat going out the door! I didn’t see anything good for beef, unfortunately