U.S. Meat Prices Keep Rising

U.S. exports of beef and pork are on pace to set records this year, and domestic demand is rebounding with surprising strength, indicating that slower growth world-wide and high unemployment at home haven't choked off appetites for some everyday luxuries, according to The Wall Street Journal. For the full story, click here.

Editor’s Insight: This is not good news for consumers, but it does indicate that refreshment service operators have an opportunity to win more consumer meal and snack purchases.

Last week, the U.S. Agriculture Department reported that food prices will rise by 3.5 percent to 4.5 percent this year, the biggest 1-year increase since 1978.