Richmond, Va. (Newsradio.com) - According to a report published by the USDA, trends indicate that Virginians shouldn't expect any major breaks in food prices any time soon.
Though downward pressure from rising poultry production should lower prices across the meat market, produce prices are expected to rise slightly, and egg prices are expected to continue on the path they've been on. The Farm Bureau says that supply volatility from Avian Flu outbreaks caused the 55% increase in egg prices in 2022.
Overall, increased energy and labor costs mean higher production costs, which in turn lead to higher retail prices. So, while factors like weather and Avian Flu contributed to the steep price hikes we saw in 2022, steady growth in food prices are still expected.