SACRAMENTO, CA - You've probably noticed your grocery bills are getting a little steeper these days. And you might be struggling finding a way to get the protein your family needs without breaking the bank.
Protein-rich food sources, such as peanut butter, beef and pork have all increased in price by as much as 10 percent over the past year. Other sources of healthy sustenance have also shown signs of inflation with fruit and diary prices eclipsing last year's costs by 10 percent on the average.
And this increase shows no sign of stopping in 2011. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is projecting all food prices to increase by 3 to 4 percent throughout the end of the year. Grocery store prices are also projected to increase by 3.5 to 4.5 percent and restaurant prices could jump by the same margin.
So what's the reason for these price hikes? According to experts, higher food commodity, higher energy prices, and strengthening global food demand are all factors in higher food bills.
For those of you looking for affordable ways to continue getting the protein you need, there are some economical, protein-based foods out there, including:
- Canned tuna fish - A can is typically priced at 50 or 60 cents and contains up to 33 grams of protein.
- Yogurt - 33 cents per container, a good source of calcium and provides 10 percent of your daily protein requirement.
- Ground turkey and chicken - Packed with protein at about $3 per package, depending on brand.
- Rice and beans - Another good source of protein as well as fiber.
- Protein powders - Soy protein powders may seem costly upon the initial $10 outlay, but when weighed out over the long run compared to the amount of protein and servings per container, supplements can serve as an economical alternative.
Despite the forecasted spikes for the remainder of 2011, there are signs that inflation levels are expected to drop in 2012. However, that hinges on a number of factors, including optimal weather conditions, fuel prices, and the value of the U.S. dollar.
By: Jeff Maher
Jmaher@news10.net
News10/KXTV