Grocery Bills Weigh on Shoppers

Roughly 80 percent of Americans note that grocery costs have notably increased since the pandemic, according to a recent Intuit Credit Karma report, reports CNBC. The findings also reveal that grocery prices have risen 25 percent since the start of the pandemic.

Interviewed for the report, from May 7-13, were 2,011 American adults.

Elevated food costs have caused consumers to find relief in other areas. Roughly 28 percent said they sacrificed needs like rent or bills to pay for groceries, 27 percent revealed they occasionally skip meals, 18 percent report either applying or having considered applying for food stamps, and 15 percent either use or consider using food banks.

Despite the desire to leverage government programs or public services, 53 percent of respondents said they earn too much to qualify for food stamps or other government assistance even though they still have difficulties paying for necessities, according to the report.

Congress is grappling with the issue, noted the report.

“Grocery prices skyrocketed during the pandemic, and in many cases, they’ve kept going up, even though the pandemic is over,” Senator Elizabeth Warren said at a recent Senate hearing. Full Story