The USDA projects that the price of beef and veal will rise 5.5 to 6.5 percent this year and that poultry prices will increase 3 to 4 percent. Dairy products will likewise see a 3 to 4 percent jump, with egg prices rising 5 to 6 percent. Fresh fruit and vegetable prices are expected to increase 3 to 4 percent, the agency said.
About half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables are grown in California, but the rising cost of water has left about 500,000 acres sitting idle.
Rising beef and dairy costs have already prompted In-N-Out Burger and Chipotle Mexican Grill to hike their prices.