By Associated Press
Montgomery, AL – Just like gasoline, Alabama shoppers are paying more for food this month. The Alabama Farmers Federation said the average cost of 20 market basket items averaged 49 dollars, 3 cents in May - that's a one percent increase from April.
The federation said despite rising prices, bargains are available at supermarkets.
Certain cuts of beef are more expensive, but consumers paid less for ground beef and roasts. Poultry and egg prices also edged higher this month. Dry weather is blamed for pushing the price of tomato and sweet potatoes higher. However, consumer paid less for lettuce and red potatoes.
Dairy products, including butter, milk and ice cream also cost more. The federation said a market basket was highest in south Alabama at 52 dollars, 14 cents and lowest in northwest counties at 47 dollars, 5 cents.
The survey was conducted the week of May first through the eighth.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)