FMI Statement on November CPI Food Price Numbers

Arlington, VA - Today, FMI - The Food Industry Association commented on the November Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which shows a 1.9% increase in food-at-home prices over the last 12 months. FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig offered the following statement.

"The CPI numbers released today underscore the continued challenges grocery shoppers must navigate to get the most out of their grocery dollar. Nevertheless, they remain resilient and savvy in the face of these challenges

"FMI's December U.S. Grocer Shopper Snapshot survey shows a large majority of shoppers (70%) tell us they agree that grocers try hard to provide them with options to help them stay within their grocery budget. Importantly, most shoppers feel empowered with choices, as 77% say they have control over their grocery spending. However, it is important to acknowledge the ongoing frustration shoppers feel regarding the affordability of the food and household goods they rely on, with only 55% saying groceries are affordable.

Today's CPI numbers show that - while categories like proteins continue to outpace topline inflation there are still silver linings in the data. The index for fruits and vegetables stayed essentially flat at 0.1% and prices for dairy and related products actually decreased by 1.6% over the past 12 months.

"The outlook for 2026 may be uncertain, but grocers and their supplier partners remain committed to supporting shoppers in managing their budgets through promotions, coupons, private label brands, an assortment of package sizes, and more."

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