The grocery aisle's new double whammy: price and safety
Summary
Americans are facing higher grocery prices, with an increase of over 18% since 2022. At the same time, concerns about food safety are growing due to cuts in federal inspections and watchdog staff since President Donald Trump's administration began in 2025.Key Facts
- The average American household spends more than $10,000 on groceries yearly.
- Grocery prices have risen more than 18% since 2022, affecting different foods in varying degrees.
- In 2026, 5,504 products have been recalled, slightly more than last year but fewer than in 2024.
- The FDA is investigating a record 19 food outbreaks simultaneously, including infant formula and jalapeños.
- Cuts in staff at agencies like the CDC, FDA, and USDA have led to fewer food safety inspections.
- Experts warn that fewer inspections may lead to more foodborne illnesses and costly recalls.
- Higher energy costs, trade policies, and weather events are major reasons for rising food prices, not recalls.
- Meat and produce prices are affected by factors like disease outbreaks in cattle and tariffs on imports.
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