Political peril spurs Trump to act on beef prices even as ranchers rage

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3. "a pound of ground beef is $6.32". That's cheaper than a bag of potato chips.

Despite good deals, we can't deny that the price of potato chips has been steadily increasing for decades, with a sharp upturn in recent years. At the beginning of 2020, the average 16-ounce bag was about $4.50. By 2025, it was $6.50, a whopping $2 more. These potato chip prices feel like they're outpacing inflation. And while inflation is definitely a factor, it's not the only issue causing prices to soar.

Food products aren't immune to inflation. When raw ingredients cost more, chip production costs rise. Think water for crops, oil for frying, transportation fuel, labor, and land fees. Chip companies typically increase price tags to make up the difference. However, Sherwood News reports that the price of chips has increased 30.6% in the past five years, while the consumer price index has only increased 20.6%. So what other factors are at play?

Climate change is one major culprit. Potatoes need a cool climate to grow, and as temperatures increase, farmers are experiencing smaller yields. While Idaho and Washington are famous for potato production, Pennsylvania holds the title of "The Potato Chip Capital of the World" thanks to numerous potato chip factories. The state grows some potatoes, but not enough to keep up with demand. Climate change only exacerbates this. And when chip companies need to ship potatoes from distant states, production costs increase.

....https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/staggering-price-potato-chips-1950s-141700956.html