ITHACA, N.Y. -- Barring any major crop disasters, consumers can expect no more than a 4 percent average increase in their food bills this year, predicts Josephine Swanson of the New York State College of Human Ecology.
'Food prices in 1982 showed the smallest annual gain since 1976,' Swanson said, adding that prices in 1983 may rise even less due to abundant supplies, depressed farm prices, and a low inflation rate.
Higher than average prices are expected in pork, prepared foods, non-alcoholic drinks, sugar, and sweets.
Meats, poultry, cereal, and bakery items will probably increase the average amount while fruits, vegetables, and eggs will show little price gain, Swanson said.
Although it seems like more, only an average 18 percent of consumers' disposable income is spent on food, the same percentage as in 1971. Swanson recommended taking advantage of seasonal buys, planning ahead, and eating at home to stretch food dollars.