Food prices

Drought conditions in parts of the South and Midwest have caused ranchers to shrink cattle herds. That's one factor pushing cattle prices higher recently.

Consumers tend to be very sensitive to food costs. Fresh edibles like fruit, vegetables and meat saw substantial declines.

For restaurants and retailers in particular, it can lead to something the Federal Reserve's Beige Book calls "lumpy" pricing.

Supermarkets and restaurants business relies on selling food. So why are prices rising more in the latter?

In August, agricultural exports were about 20% lower than the same time a year ago, according to the Commerce Department. That's because export volumes have fallen, and ag prices are coming off of recent highs.

While the White House is asking for more money for the Women, Infants, and Children program, a House bill would reduce WIC funds.

And consumers of all income levels are adopting creative strategies to make their dollars stretch farther.

Food inflation is a major complaint, but some farmers and companies say market forces will keep prices in check.

Inflation is cooling, but food prices are still much higher than they were a year ago. Bakery products, in particular.

Millions of people have had their benefits cut by at least $95 a month, at a time when food prices are up almost 10%.