Apr 10, 2025

Arlington, VA - Today, FMI - The Food Industry Association commented on the March 2025 Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers released today, showing a 0.5% increase in the rate of food price inflation from February 2025 and 2.4% rise year-over-year. 

FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig stated, “The CPI numbers released today on food at home demonstrate that grocery prices continue to face headwinds in this uncertain economic environment. While the index for eggs increased, pressures in that category are starting to ease as the avian flu situation has begun to abate and wholesale egg prices have fallen.”

Harig continued, “However, while tariffs announced in March have thus far had limited impact on food prices, the overall situation continues to remain uncertain and bears watching – especially as reciprocal tariffs were put in place earlier this month and then dialed down for most counties yesterday. This is good news for consumers.”

FMI Vice President of Research and Insights Steve Markenson added, “The economic environment and the lack of clarity around tariffs is increasingly weighing on consumers. FMI’s April Grocery Shopper Snapshot found that only 36% of shoppers have positive expectations for the year ahead, down from 56% in January. For 57% of consumers, the impact of tariffs on the availability, price or safety of food remains their top concern for 2025. Despite these shifts in consumer sentiment, the good news is that 79% say they feel in control of their household grocery spending. This suggests that shoppers remain resilient and nimble in navigating these challenges to feed themselves and their families.”