The latest Marketbasket Wisconsin Farm Bureau survey reveals that the total price of a summer barbecue meal for 10 people is $66.38, which is slightly less than last year. That’s less than $7 per person!
That amount contrasts with the national average of $71.22, the highest since 2013, according to an American Farm Bureau study.
“While we saw some price fluctuations for items included in the summer market basket survey, the overall price in Wisconsin remained relatively stable through 2023.” said Cassie Sonnentag, senior director of public relations for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau. “Wisconsin’s diverse agricultural industry provides affordable food prices due to the availability and proximity of many of the items included in the study.”
A study by the American Farm Bureau found regional differences in meal prices:
| Region | Cost of the meal |
| Northeast | $63.54 |
| Midwest | PLN 68.26 |
| South | 68.33 PLN |
| West | $80.88 |
Higher costs in the West, which are influenced by, among others, California’s Prop-12 regulations significantly raise the national average.
“The California regulations are showing their impact on the cost of food in the West,” said AFBF economist Bernt Nelson. “For example, as a result of regulations such as Prop-12We’re seeing a 30% higher average price for pork chops in California compared to the rest of the country.”
Although national food prices have increased by 30% over the past five years, Nelson reminds consumers of the overall affordability of our nation’s food supply compared to other countries.
“We have some of the most affordable food prices in the world,” Nelson added. “This affordability is made possible by a mighty solution agricultural act“
Despite annual fluctuations in food prices, farmers continue to receive 15 cents on the dollar.
“Farmers are feeling the effects of high input costs such as fuel and fertilisers,” Sonnentag added.
Inflation also affected consumers. For tips on increasing your food budget, check out our resources throughout Gather Wisconsin. Our website has resources on sustainable swaps, understanding food labels, and food safety.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau members collected data on 12 food products in 23 communities in June for the study, which is part of Marketbasket’s ongoing series that examines the annual cost of Thanksgiving dinner.
