Thanksgiving feast will cost a bit more

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., Nov. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. consumers will pay a little more to cover a 3.3 percent increase in the cost of food and beverages to put year's Thanksgiving feast on the table.

Purdue University assistant Professor of Economics Corinne Alexander said dairy products fueled the food price hike, with butter rising 29 percent from last November and milk up 8 percent.

"Dairy and cattle prices are the major reason for food price increases this year," Alexander said. Round roast costs 19 percent more, chuck roast 13 percent more, round steak 10 percent more and ground beef 5 percent more.

Overall food and beverage prices rose 3.3 percent, but there are bright spots. Prices fell for eggs, bread, flour and peanut butter. Turkey prices will be about the same as 2003. Cranberry supplies are up 6 percent.

Hurricanes in Florida and severe storms in California damaged citrus fruit crops, fresh tomatoes and bell peppers. Florida orange production will be down 27 percent and grapefruit as much as 63 percent.