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Gizmodo
2 days ago
- Health
- Gizmodo
The Food Is Trashy, But Dollar Stores Aren't Ruining Our Diets, Study Claims
Some good news for bargain hunters out there: New research shows that while the food bought at dollar stores is generally less healthy, customers' diets aren't suffering greatly as a result. Scientists at Tufts University and the USDA-Economic Research Service collaborated for the study, which tracked the food purchasing habits of nearly 200,000 American families. They found that a growing number of people are buying food from dollar stores, particularly people with lower incomes. At the same time, the overall diet quality wasn't significantly different between those who shop and don't shop at these outlets. Dollar stores have become a ubiquitous presence across the U.S. over the past few decades. Research has shown how these stores have reshaped the local economy, particularly in small towns. For the new study, the researchers wanted to get a better sense of how they've changed our diets. To that end, they analyzed yearly data from a nationally representative sample of Americans' household food purchases. They also used USDA data to rate the quality of people's store-bought food. According to the study, dollar store foods made up 3.4% of a household's total calories in 2008, nearly doubling to 6.5% by 2020. People of color, people living in rural neighborhoods, and those with lower incomes were more likely to buy foods from dollar stores. As other research shows, dollar store food purchases are less healthy than food bought elsewhere. These stores are less likely to carry fresh produce, for example, and more likely to have sweets, snacks, and other processed foods. But strangely enough, the quality of people's diets didn't shift much regardless of whether they ate dollar store food. People who reported never buying foods at dollar stores had a healthy eating score of 50.5, for instance, whereas people who most shopped at these stores had a score of 46.3 (the scale goes to 100). On average, even the most frequent dollar store customers still got more than 90% of their at-home calories from somewhere else. The findings suggest that the impact of these stores on Americans' health is more complicated than assumed, the researchers say. People who shop at these stores seem to be changing their food-buying behavior in other ways. 'Although foods purchased in dollar stores are less healthy, households may compensate through healthier purchases elsewhere,' they wrote in their paper, published Monday in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The researchers note that some towns and neighborhoods have taken action to limit the growth of these stores. But given their findings, they argue that more study is needed to understand exactly how these businesses are shaping people's eating habits. 'We need more data on the real effects of dollar stores on healthy eating as some communities may be putting the policy cart before the horse,' said senior study researcher Sean Cash, an economist at Tufts' Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, in a statement from the university.
Yahoo
28-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Weather Shocks vs. Oversupply: Are You Trading SRW Wheat's Next Big Move?
The 2025/26 marketing year, June 01 to May 31, for Chicago Soft Red Winter (SRW) wheat shows a mixed supply and demand picture, with harvest occurring from late May to August, primarily in the U.S. South, Great Lakes, and Atlantic regions. The USDA's Economic Research Service projects that U.S. wheat ending stocks for 2025/26 will be the highest since 2019/20, up 10% from 2024/25, driven by larger beginning stocks. U.S. wheat exports are projected to be down by 20 million bushels, constrained by larger projected exports from competitors like the EU, Argentina, and Russia. Demand remains steady but faces headwinds from global competition, as SRW is the world's cheapest wheat, with funds holding net short positions since 2022. This competitive pricing stems from robust U.S. production and improved moisture conditions as crops enter the heading phase, which could keep prices subdued. Speculators should note the potential for volatility tied to inter-market spreads with other grains, while hedgers must monitor export demand and global stock levels to manage risk effectively. The latest crop progress report indicates that the U.S. winter wheat harvest is 63% complete, slightly behind the 5-year average. Spring wheat is 78% headed, exceeding the average by 3%. The good to excellent condition rating for spring wheat increased by 4% to 54%, with notable improvements in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. This abundance, especially in SRW, could flood the market and cause depressed prices. More News from Barchart Warren Buffett Warns Inflation Turns Business Into 'The Upside-Down World of Alice in Wonderland' But Weeds Out 'Bad Businesses' Why GOOGL Stock May Be the Market's Next Big Winner Alphabet Posts Lower Free Cash Flow and FCF Margins - Is GOOGL Stock Overvalued? Stop Missing Market Moves: Get the FREE Barchart Brief – your midday dose of stock movers, trending sectors, and actionable trade ideas, delivered right to your inbox. Sign Up Now! A positive event supporting higher prices is continuing weather disruptions in regions like Southern Russia, Ukraine, or Northern Europe, where dryness and frost risks persist. Such events could tighten global supply, boosting SRW demand as a cost-competitive alternative. The wheat market outlook remains cautious for the upcoming season, with prices likely to stay range-bound to lower unless significant weather shocks disrupt supply. Speculators might find opportunities in short-term weather-driven rallies. At the same time, hedgers may consider locking in prices during potential spikes, given the bearish bias from ample U.S. stocks and global competition. Technical Picture Source: Barchart Since the recent peak in February 2025, the 50 simple moving average (SMA) has contained the short-lived price rallies. Price action appears to be trading sideways, but the SMA is still sloping down. The market will be keeping an eye on the 543'6 low from May. The Commitment of Traders (COT) Report Source: CME Group Exchange The managed money traders' COT report shows aggressive selling(red lines) and remaining net short (yellow line) since July 2022. They hold 31% of open short positions, a slight increase from three months ago. Source: Barchart The continuous weekly nearest contract wheat chart shows the price action since managed money traders went net short in 2022 and have remained with that sentiment. The wheat market has been holding support at the 506'0 to 514'0 level. However, the rallies from these levels appear weaker with each attempt failing to get any traction or sentiment change from the trend-following managed money traders. Seasonal Pattern Source: Moore Research Center, Inc. (MRCI) MRCI seasonal research often finds patterns tied to the expiration or delivery of a futures contract. The upcoming seasonal window (yellow box) correlates to the September wheat contract's First Notice Day (FND), as prices historically have declined into this period. The reasons may be the convergence of the futures to spot prices at expiration, storage, and carry cost, as the premium may erode as expiration approaches, or just the new supply coming to the latest market year that started in June. With the technical picture showing weak levels off of the May lows and the bearish sentiment remaining in the managed money traders' camp, the upcoming seasonal sell may be the catalyst to lower prices. Source: MRCI MRCI research has found that over the past 15 years, the December wheat contract has closed lower on approximately September 01 than on August 05 for 13 years, with an 87% occurrence rate. In addition, three of the years never had a daily closing drawdown. Based on hypothetical testing, the average net profit has been 24 cents or $1,204 per standard-sized 5,000 bushel wheat contract. As a crucial reminder, while seasonal patterns can provide valuable insights, they should not be the basis for trading decisions. Traders must consider various technical and fundamental indicators, risk management strategies, and market conditions to make informed and balanced trading decisions. Assets to Trade the Wheat Market Wheat futures are traded on the CME Group Exchange: The standard-size contract (ZW) and the mini-size contract (XW). Options on the wheat futures at the CME Group Exchange are also available. Equity traders may find that the exchange-traded fund (ETF) (WEAT) offers opportunities in their equity accounts without opening futures trading accounts. In Closing….. The 2025/26 marketing year for Chicago Soft Red Winter (SRW) wheat, spanning June 01 to May 31, presents a complex supply and demand landscape for speculators and hedgers. Harvested from late May to August across the U.S. South, Great Lakes, and Atlantic regions, SRW faces bearish pressures from a projected 10% increase in U.S. wheat ending stocks, the highest since 2019/20, driven by robust production and larger beginning stocks, according to the USDA. Global competition from the EU, Argentina, and Russia caps U.S. exports, down 20 million bushels. At the same time, SRW's position as the world's cheapest wheat fuels record net short positions by managed money traders since 2022. Improved crop conditions, with 54% of spring wheat rated good-to-excellent and the U.S. winter wheat harvest 63% complete, signal an ample supply that could depress prices further. However, weather disruptions in Southern Russia, Ukraine, or Northern Europe could tighten global supply, potentially lifting SRW demand and prices. The market's technical picture underscores bearish sentiment, with prices trading sideways below a declining 50 SMA and weak rallies off the 506'0–514'0 support. Seasonal patterns add another layer, with Moore Research Center (MRCI) data indicating an 87% chance of December wheat futures closing lower by September 01 compared to August 05, possibly driven by annual futures-to-spot convergence, storage costs, and new supply. The Commitment of Traders report confirms managed money traders' aggressive selling, holding 31% of open short positions, reinforcing a bearish outlook. Speculators can target short-term weather-driven rallies, while hedgers should lock prices during potential spikes to manage downside risk. The challenge is clear: Will you act on the bearish seasonal window and technical weakness, or wait for a weather shock to shift sentiment? Use assets like CME wheat futures (ZW, XW), options, or the WEAT ETF to position strategically, but don't rely solely on seasonal patterns—integrate technicals, fundamentals, and risk management to navigate this volatile market. On the date of publication, Don Dawson did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
28-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Shift Towards Antibiotic Alternatives Drives Growth, New Vaccines and Diagnostics Revolutionize Poultry Health Management
The U.S. poultry medicine market, valued at USD 1.83 billion in 2024, is expected to soar to USD 3.11 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.20%. High poultry consumption, reduced antibiotic use, and technological advances drive this growth. Key trends include antibiotic alternatives and efficient farming practices. U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Dublin, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Species (Chicken, Turkey, Ducks), By Product (Biologics, Pharmaceuticals), By Disease Type, By Route Of Administration, By Distribution Channel, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2033" report has been added to U.S. poultry medicine market size was estimated at USD 1.83 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3.11 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.20% from 2025 to 2033 The market is continuously growing, driven by high poultry consumption and market value, a shift towards antibiotic alternatives, and technological advancements in poultry healthcare. According to the USDA Economic Research Service, U.S. poultry products dominate both domestic and global meat markets, due to efficient production systems, advanced genetics, ample feed supply, and strong consumer demand. Between 2013 and 2022, broilers accounted for 67% of poultry sales, followed by eggs at 22% and turkeys at 11%, primarily for consumption. This surge in demand for poultry products directly translates into the need for efficient and sustainable poultry farming practices, necessitating comprehensive healthcare solutions to maintain the health and productivity of poultry flocks. The per capita consumption of poultry, from 2020 to 2024, is illustrated below in the chart:Growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance have prompted the U.S. poultry industry to reduce antibiotic use. Regulations like the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act (PAMTA) and the Preventing Antibiotic Resistance Act (PARA) have restricted the use of medically important antibiotics in poultry and livestock. For decades, antibiotics have been widely used in livestock and poultry, as high-dose treatments for specific infections and as low-dose growth promoters in animal feed. In 2013, around 131,000 tons of antibiotics were used in food animals, a number projected to increase to nearly 200,000 tons by 2030 due to rising global demand. This shift has led to increased demand for alternative health management strategies, such as vaccines, probiotics, and herbal supplements, to ensure poultry health and in veterinary and animal nutrition technologies have significantly impacted the U.S. poultry pharmaceuticals market. The development of new vaccines, diagnostic tools, feed supplements, and other specialized healthcare products has enabled poultry producers to address a wider range of health challenges, improve flock performance, and enhance food safety. These innovations contribute to more efficient and sustainable poultry farming practices. Why should you buy this report? Comprehensive Market Analysis: Gain detailed insights into the global market across major regions and segments. Competitive Landscape: Explore the market presence of key players worldwide. Future Trends: Discover the pivotal trends and drivers shaping the future of the global market. Actionable Recommendations: Utilize insights to uncover new revenue streams and guide strategic business decisions. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 150 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.83 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $3.11 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.2% Regions Covered United States Market Dynamics Market Driver Analysis High poultry consumption and market value Shift towards antibiotic alternatives Technological advancements in poultry healthcare Market Restraint Analysis Stringent regulatory compliance and approval processes U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Analysis Tools Industry Analysis - Porter's PESTEL Analysis Regulatory Framework Pricing Analysis Product Pipeline Analysis Estimated Poultry Population in U.S., 2024 Competitive Landscape Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH Zoetis Services LLC Vaxxinova International BV Merck & Co., Inc. Elanco Ceva Sante Animale Phibro Animal Health Corporation Virbac Hipra Vetanco Kemin Industries, Inc. Market Participant Categorization Company Market Position Analysis/ Heat Map Analysis Participant's Overview Financial Performance Product Benchmarking Strategic Initiatives U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Report SegmentationSpecies Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Chicken Broiler Layer Turkey Ducks Others Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Biologics Vaccines Modified/ Attenuated Live Inactivated (Killed) Other Vaccines Other Biologics Pharmaceuticals Parasiticides Anti-infectives Anti-inflammatory Analgesics Others Medicated Feed Additives Disease Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Newcastle Disease Infectious Bronchitis Infectious Bursal Disease Coccidiosis Salmonella Marek's Disease Others Route of Administration Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Oral Injectable Topical Others Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Veterinary Hospitals & Clinics E-commerce Offline Retail Stores Others For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment U.S. Poultry Medicine Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
28-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Shift Towards Antibiotic Alternatives Drives Growth, New Vaccines and Diagnostics Revolutionize Poultry Health Management
The U.S. poultry medicine market, valued at USD 1.83 billion in 2024, is expected to soar to USD 3.11 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.20%. High poultry consumption, reduced antibiotic use, and technological advances drive this growth. Key trends include antibiotic alternatives and efficient farming practices. U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Dublin, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Species (Chicken, Turkey, Ducks), By Product (Biologics, Pharmaceuticals), By Disease Type, By Route Of Administration, By Distribution Channel, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2033" report has been added to U.S. poultry medicine market size was estimated at USD 1.83 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3.11 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.20% from 2025 to 2033 The market is continuously growing, driven by high poultry consumption and market value, a shift towards antibiotic alternatives, and technological advancements in poultry healthcare. According to the USDA Economic Research Service, U.S. poultry products dominate both domestic and global meat markets, due to efficient production systems, advanced genetics, ample feed supply, and strong consumer demand. Between 2013 and 2022, broilers accounted for 67% of poultry sales, followed by eggs at 22% and turkeys at 11%, primarily for consumption. This surge in demand for poultry products directly translates into the need for efficient and sustainable poultry farming practices, necessitating comprehensive healthcare solutions to maintain the health and productivity of poultry flocks. The per capita consumption of poultry, from 2020 to 2024, is illustrated below in the chart:Growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance have prompted the U.S. poultry industry to reduce antibiotic use. Regulations like the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act (PAMTA) and the Preventing Antibiotic Resistance Act (PARA) have restricted the use of medically important antibiotics in poultry and livestock. For decades, antibiotics have been widely used in livestock and poultry, as high-dose treatments for specific infections and as low-dose growth promoters in animal feed. In 2013, around 131,000 tons of antibiotics were used in food animals, a number projected to increase to nearly 200,000 tons by 2030 due to rising global demand. This shift has led to increased demand for alternative health management strategies, such as vaccines, probiotics, and herbal supplements, to ensure poultry health and in veterinary and animal nutrition technologies have significantly impacted the U.S. poultry pharmaceuticals market. The development of new vaccines, diagnostic tools, feed supplements, and other specialized healthcare products has enabled poultry producers to address a wider range of health challenges, improve flock performance, and enhance food safety. These innovations contribute to more efficient and sustainable poultry farming practices. Why should you buy this report? Comprehensive Market Analysis: Gain detailed insights into the global market across major regions and segments. Competitive Landscape: Explore the market presence of key players worldwide. Future Trends: Discover the pivotal trends and drivers shaping the future of the global market. Actionable Recommendations: Utilize insights to uncover new revenue streams and guide strategic business decisions. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 150 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.83 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $3.11 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.2% Regions Covered United States Market Dynamics Market Driver Analysis High poultry consumption and market value Shift towards antibiotic alternatives Technological advancements in poultry healthcare Market Restraint Analysis Stringent regulatory compliance and approval processes U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Analysis Tools Industry Analysis - Porter's PESTEL Analysis Regulatory Framework Pricing Analysis Product Pipeline Analysis Estimated Poultry Population in U.S., 2024 Competitive Landscape Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH Zoetis Services LLC Vaxxinova International BV Merck & Co., Inc. Elanco Ceva Sante Animale Phibro Animal Health Corporation Virbac Hipra Vetanco Kemin Industries, Inc. Market Participant Categorization Company Market Position Analysis/ Heat Map Analysis Participant's Overview Financial Performance Product Benchmarking Strategic Initiatives U.S. Poultry Medicine Market Report SegmentationSpecies Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Chicken Broiler Layer Turkey Ducks Others Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Biologics Vaccines Modified/ Attenuated Live Inactivated (Killed) Other Vaccines Other Biologics Pharmaceuticals Parasiticides Anti-infectives Anti-inflammatory Analgesics Others Medicated Feed Additives Disease Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Newcastle Disease Infectious Bronchitis Infectious Bursal Disease Coccidiosis Salmonella Marek's Disease Others Route of Administration Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Oral Injectable Topical Others Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033) Veterinary Hospitals & Clinics E-commerce Offline Retail Stores Others For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment U.S. Poultry Medicine Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Most Overpriced Grocery Store Chains In The US
The Economic Research Service (ERS) May 2025 forecast predicts that food prices will increase by 2.9% over the course of the year. This comes on the back of inflation and sky-high grocery bills we have been dealing with post-pandemic. In short, eating well certainly hasn't been getting any cheaper. In these uncertain times, it might be surprising to know that there are some grocery stores and supermarket chains that continue to thrive despite their higher prices. Yes, the fancy ones with mood lighting and $20 smoothies. But they've got several tricks up their sleeves. From loyal customers to pretty packaging, they coast on the belief that when you shop with them, you are getting better stuff than elsewhere. That said, if you're one of the many folks trying to make your paycheck stretch a little further, changing your shopping habits could make all the difference. According to U.S. government data, Americans spent 11.2% of their total income on groceries in 2023. That's a big chunk, and cutting back here and there can really add up. So, if you're looking to trim your food budget, here are some of the most overpriced grocery chains in the U.S. You might want to avoid them if you're not looking to blow your whole budget on artisanal cheese or fancy water. Read more: The Ultimate Ranking Of Grocery Store Rotisserie Chickens, According To Customers With humble beginnings in Boston circa 1966, today Erewhon has grown into an LA-based specialist market that is beloved by celebrities and influencers alike. From selling natural foods way before organic was cool, it has become what one YouTube video described as "part grocery store, part venture capital firm for wellness brands, and part social club for the wellness elite." With its fame spreading far and wide, it is no surprise that Erewhon is widely considered one of the most expensive grocery stores in the world. We are talking $19 for a single strawberry and $43 for a bottle of extra-virgin olive oil. Shopping for bits and bobs at Erewhon can easily cost more than a meal at a restaurant. Grab a bite from the hot bar or smoothie counter, and you might need a second job or at least a deep breath. Then again, maybe that's just the price of potentially spotting a Kardashian in the wild. One reason why Erewhon probably gets away with such high prices is the sheer range of products it has on offer that are not available elsewhere. That and the fact that "healthy," "clean," or "biohacked" labels have become a full-blown lifestyle flex. Have a $20 Hailey Bieber smoothie in your hand? It's basically the Chanel sunglasses of the grocery world: an easy entry ticket in the luxury wellness scene. While not a true grocery store chain, Eataly is more of an Italian gourmet market and restaurant chain that sells Italian foods. It was founded in 2007 by Oscar Farinetti, a proponent of the slow food movement. The first Eataly opened in Turin, Italy, and since then has gone global with numerous outlets in places as diverse as Japan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Korea. The first opening in the United States was in New York, and it has since grown to 10 stores in North America. A lot of the products are imported directly from Italy, while others like the fresh pasta are made in-house. Eataly specializes in Italian cuisine, so you won't find your usual grocery staples here. Most stores offer a range of fresh produce grown locally, and the meat and seafood counters look like they belong in a Michelin-starred kitchen. But fair warning: Those pretty displays come at a price. Case in point, Atlantic salmon is over $25 per pound. Of course, any place this expensive will have its detractors. One Redditor claimed that the pizza at Da Michele is better (which may or may not be true, but that's besides the point). The bottom line is that shopping at Eataly is pricey, and one shouldn't expect otherwise. Between the imported wines, artisanal cheeses, and inflation, it's best saved for special occasions or just wandering the aisles pretending you're in Milan or Rome. One of the largest grocery food chains in the country, Whole Foods has over 500 outlets in the United States and a presence in all but six states. Its focus is on selling organic and natural products, all of which must meet the brand's exacting quality standards. But these criteria come with a hefty price tag, which is why Whole Foods has a reputation for being one of the most expensive grocery stores in the country. There is no denying that the interior of Whole Foods is very appealing, with spacious and well-planned layouts that often feel more like a boutique market than your average supermarket. Ever since Amazon acquired it in 2017, the brand has been trying to rid itself of the "Whole Paycheck" moniker, but that will take some doing. Since then, the chain has set out to make organic groceries a lot more affordable and has expanded on its list of in-house label products. To be fair, prices have come down, but affordable is still relative. Organic products cost more by nature, and Whole Foods remains very much a premium brand. A 2023 study by the Philadelphia Inquirer found that Whole Foods was still one of the two most expensive grocery stores in the country based on the price of 18 basket items. So while Amazon's cost-cutting efforts have made a dent, they haven't exactly transformed Whole Foods into a bargain-aisle haven. Publix is an employee-owned grocery chain based in Florida and popular throughout the southeastern U.S. Its popularity seems a bit of a mystery since prices are noticeably higher as compared to other grocery chains such as Walmart or Lidl, yet customers keep coming back. Whether it's clever marketing or just customer loyalty, Publix seems to have cracked the marketing code. When you start comparing prices, though, the sticker shock is real. A Redditor pointed out that a box of family-size Cheez-It costs $4.98 at Walmart but a whopping $8 at Publix. That's a premium of 60%! Another shopper compared the prices of similar items at Publix and Lidl and found that he spent $40 less on groceries at Lidl compared to Publix. This difference in prices was almost across the board, including fresh herbs, vegetables, and meat. For example, even on sale, Publix's price for chicken thighs was higher than Lidl's by $1. Other Redditors talked about how poorly the company pays its employees, which paints the brand poorly, especially when you consider the higher margins. Publix, however, seems rather unfazed by all the criticisms and soldiers on, charging higher prices than its competitors, while its loyal fans keep filling their carts. The name Wegmans brings to mind a gourmet wonderland, with sprawling sections of ready-to-eat meals, a massive cheese shop, a sushi counter, and even in-store dining options. And all this with a variety of grocery aisles to shop from too. The vibe is unique and leans toward a European-style upscale shopping experience. For many, the sheer variety on display can be bewildering, especially if you are new to the store. So, is Wegmans actually expensive, or does it just feel that way? Turns out it's a little bit of both. The extensive range of products means that some items are at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to regular brands. And even though not everything on the shelves will drain your bank account, the products on display are attractive enough to tempt you into spending more than what you planned. Some customers say Wegmans is worth it for the quality and variety, but others remain unconvinced. On a recent Reddit thread, someone called out the hot food bar for charging $15.99 per pound. These inflated prices were also confirmed by a Consumers' Checkbook survey that found Wegmans' prices to be 18% higher than the all-store average. Sure, the quality might be top-tier, but for folks watching their grocery budget, that extra percentage can be hard to justify. A staple of the grocery industry in the Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania region for over 130 years, Acme Markets has been on the receiving end of a lot of negative press of late. If Reddit reviews are anything to go by, one would be hard pressed to find a single redeeming factor in favor of the chain. From crappy service to dirty shelves and high prices, Redditors seem to take delight in trashing it. One reviewer went so far as to accuse Philadelphians of Stockholm Syndrome because of their love for the grocery store chain. So what's the score with Acme, and are the prices actually higher than at other chains? A survey by Consumers' Checkbook of the different grocery chains in the Delaware Valley region found that Acme's overall prices were higher than the average by about 12%. Not only were the prices higher, but the quality was substantially lower than the average. That's a tough pill to swallow for anyone hoping to shop local and save a buck. With its recent acquisition by Kroger, the largest supermarket chain in the country, there are expectations that prices will come down, and shoppers are crossing their fingers for better prices and a more pleasant shopping experience. But for now, Acme struggles to keep its footing in the competitive grocery store chain industry. The Fresh Market, launched in 1982, was inspired by the open-air markets found in Europe. Its goal is to provide quality products to consumers, and on this front, it more than delivers. Its diverse range of items, such as fresh flowers, specialty cheeses, and other premium products, sets it apart from more conventional grocery chains. The stores are strategically located in more affluent neighborhoods, with noticeably bumped-up pricing. Voted by USA Today readers as one of the best grocery store chains in the country in 2024, it's also one of the more expensive ones. The management seems unconcerned about the "expensive" tag. "We aren't looking to be a natural grocery store, we are looking to be a specialty store", says their CEO, Larry Appel. The target consumer base seems to be high-income consumers in wealthy neighborhoods, and people who value premium products (i.e., the high-income shopper who doesn't blink at $20 cheese or a $50 roast). Translation? If you're on a budget, you're probably not the target audience. The Fresh Market caters to those who see grocery shopping as an experience and don't mind paying for the privilege. With over 250 stores across the southeastern United States, Harris Teeter is a popular grocery chain that promises top-notch products and services. The company prides itself on the quality of the meats and seafood it has on offer, as well as its deli, bakery, and wine sections. There is also a prepared foods section where you can get sushi, pizza, and salads if you're in the mood for a quick (and pricey) bite. Harris Teeter has long been associated in the same "expensive but nice" grocery chain category as Whole Foods and The Fresh Market. Since being bought by Kroger in 2014, some shoppers even insist that prices have slowly increased without the matching bump in quality, variety, or service. According to some reviewers, Harris Teeter is not worth the premium, mainly because of quality issues and lax services. Others argue it's still worth it for the convenience and selection, especially if you know how to work the system. There are deals to be had if you are willing to hunt for them. The weekly VIC (Very Important Customer) and eVIC specials can throw up a bargain, and many regulars take advantage of them. But if you're watching your budget like a hawk, it may not be your go-to spot for everyday groceries. Another very upscale grocery store in Southern California is Gelson's. It started in 1951 in Burbank and has since expanded into a chain of supermarkets that prides itself on its top-shelf produce, picture-perfect meat displays, and white-glove service. Naturally, all at premium prices. If you thought browsing at Whole Foods was an indulgent day out, Gelson's feels like a luxury private shopping experience. The chain openly claims to cater to the discerning customer, and everything about it, from the quality of service to the range of products, attests to this fact. The prices of the products act as a filter that helps keep them exclusive. Do not be surprised at eggs that cost $6.99 and more a dozen, or the same amount for a gallon of the least expensive milk. Prices at the prepared food section can run from $15 upward for a takeout meal. Sure, it's delicious and beautifully packaged, but when your grocery bill starts looking like your dinner-for-two tab, it stings. While it may not be as dear or have the same social cache as Erewhon, Gelson's still brings serious luxury vibes, and for Californians trying to stay within a limited budget, it's probably best admired from afar (or reserved for very special treat-yourself days). Natural Grocers is a chain that is riding the current trend of clean eating. To be honest, it has been doing this since before the concept even became cool. Founded by Margaret and Philip Isely, who launched the business after a personal health scare, the goal was simple: help people eat better and feel good as a result. To this end, the chain claims to stock only 100% organic produce, 100% pasture-based dairy, 100% free-range eggs, and only conscientiously and humanely raised meats. As is stated proudly on the website, it sells only the best natural, organic, gluten-free, GMO-free, and vegan foods in every department of the stores. The household and body care products are termed as "ecologically thoughtful," and the chain even has in-house nutritionists or Nutritional Health Coaches to advise you on the healthiest ways to spend your money. In addition, it refuses to carry a list of ingredients because of how they are grown, produced, and processed. Of course, organic anything isn't cheap, and Natural Grocers is no exception. The brand, however, makes no apologies for its prices and, with its focus on service and product quality, has developed an ever-expanding and faithful customer base. If you are looking to cut costs and make ends meet, though, you might want to give it a miss. For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout.
