Frugal Friends Podcast Why Groceries Are So Expensive Now (& How You Can Save Money on Groceries in 2026)
Jan 13, 2026
Grocery prices are skyrocketing, and it’s not your imagination! The hosts delve into historical causes like COVID impacts, labor shortages, and global events affecting food costs. Discover money-saving strategies for 2026, including reverse meal planning and using frozen produce. They emphasize a simple four-meal rotation to minimize waste and streamline shopping. Personal routines, like meal prepping, are discussed alongside the importance of enjoying meals with tasty sauces. Learn to cook more at home to save money and embrace effective frugal habits!
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Why Grocery Prices Jumped And Won't Fall
- Grocery prices rose ~30% over five years due to COVID supply shocks, labor shortages, war, and disease outbreaks.
- USDA expects prices to keep rising slowly in 2026 rather than fall.
Market Concentration Raised Food Costs
- Industry concentration allowed higher profits that pushed consumer food prices up.
- Studies show corporate profits accounted for a significant share of inflation in some food sectors.
Reverse Meal Planning First
- Do reverse meal planning: start by inventorying your fridge, freezer, and pantry before making a grocery list.
- Ask tools like ChatGPT to create a 7-day meal plan from on-hand ingredients and list only needed supplements.
