Restaurant menu prices are climbing, with burgers, wings, and burritos leading the charge amid rising ingredient costs. New data reveals inflation’s bite is hitting both entrees and profits.
Tariffs, labor shortages, and rising input costs are fueling “foodflation,” squeezing margins and reshaping consumer behavior. As grocery prices climb 23% since 2022, brands face pressure to innovate or lose share to private labels.
Spinach and lettuce prices spiked dramatically in July, with producer prices rising over 130% month over month due to tariffs, labor shortages, and climate-related stress. As fresh vegetable inflation accelerates, analysts warn of looming price hikes for consumers and intensified strain on the produce supply chain.
Honeycrisp apple prices have surged 160% amid crop shortages, rising labor costs, and limited imports. Retailers are pivoting to Cosmic Crisp, frozen produce, and private labels as shoppers seek relief from premium fruit sticker shock.
