MADISON, WI (WSAU) -- The latest Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation marketbasket survey shows food prices in the state remain competitive with those nationwide.
Sarah Hetke with the WFBF says the summer grilling survey shows 14 food items associated with a cookout for 10 can be purchased for less than $6 per person. "[That's] a pretty affordable option for many families, considering its less than what a Big Mac meal costs."
Wisconsin’s $56.47 survey price is nine cents higher than AFBF's survey of the same 14 food items. The national survey came in at $56.38. Items surveyed included 2 pounds of ground round and 4 pounds of pork spare ribs, which averaged $8.84 and 11.04, respectively.
Hetke says a large supply of pork helped that price drop by more than a dollar compared to last year's survey. "We are seeing a strong supply of pork, and that's helping to make it a more affordable option." She goes on to say that the beef is traditionally in high demand during the summer months. Other higher-priced items on the list were a three-pound tub of potato salad at $9.25 and one whole watermelon at $4.70. Shelf-stable items included in the survey were buns, baked beans, ketchup, mustard, and corn chips- all of which checked in at under $3.30. Items added to the list this year included a 1.5-quart container of vanilla ice cream. Being in the Dairy State we love to have a bowl of ice cream for dessert, so next year we should be able to compare those prices apples-to-apples."
Hetke added that the survey is a chance to remind residents how important the ag industry is to the success of the state. "When you go to the grocery store and you are buying meat and cheese, you know that it is coming from our Wisconsin farmers especially if you can see where that product is being processed. But, you can also look for that something special from Wisconsin label, because we also have other products that are coming from Wisconsin."
