FMI Statement on December CPI Food Price Numbers

Arlington, VA – Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the December Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which show a 0.7% rise in food-at-home prices for December and a 2.4% increase over the last 12 months. FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig offered the following statement.  

“Today’s CPI numbers reflect the ongoing challenge of bringing food inflation under control. Overall inflation remains stubbornly above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, and food prices also disappointingly reflected this trend in December. While we are hopeful that a portion of this month’s number is likely tied to the holidays and may stabilize in 2026, we recognize the continued pressure on the American shopper’s wallet.  

“Categories across the board saw notable increases, including 0.6% for cereals and bakery goods, 0.5% for fruits and vegetables, and 0.9% for dairy products. The bright spot in the data is the index for meat, poultry, fish and eggs which fell 0.2%, with eggs in particular dropping 8.2% for the month. A decrease in protein prices is welcome news for shoppers that have experienced significant price increases in that category in recent months.  

“We understand the frustration shoppers continue to feel about managing their grocery spending in this uncertain price environment. Our members are committed to doing everything they can to mitigate price increases in order to provide consumers with a variety of foods and household goods that fit within their budgets.”