A Fourth of July cookout will cost slightly more this year, according to the latest marketbasket survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation. A holiday cookout for 10 people will cost an average of $73.82, up nearly $3, or four percent, from last year. That’s about $7.38 per person and marks the highest nominal cost since the survey began in 2016. "Families are dealing with higher prices for many expenses, including groceries," said economist Faith Parum. "As you look at the purchasing power of the dollar, however, it has remained relatively stable when it comes to food." Higher ground beef prices were a major factor, rising 5.5 percent as cattle producers continue rebuilding herds following years of drought. Strawberry prices also climbed due to frost damage and higher labor costs. One bright spot for consumers was potato salad, down nearly 18 percent from last year, thanks to lower egg prices and strong potato supplies.
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