Meat Prices to Climb in 2015

Drought, disease, and demand forced beef and pork prices to rise in 2014, and the increase is likely to continue in 2015. As of November 2014, pork prices were up roughly 10% from last year, according to the USDA. The agency says it expects an additional increase of about 5% in 2015. Even eggs are more expensive: After a 7 to 8% increase in 2014, the price of eggs will tick up another percentage point or two this year. And beef is in a class by itself: USDA predicts beef and veal prices will end up with an 11 to 12% increase for 2014 and will rise by another 5% in 2015. “The two things low-income people struggle with the most are getting fresh fruits and vegetables and getting protein, so when those items go up in price, that’s a particularly problematic event,” said Jim Weill, president of the Food Research and Action Center.” This means the 15,000 pounds of meat we distribute every week is all the more vital for our hungry neighbors. Source: NBC News, 1/1/15, Meat Prices