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Analyzing rising food prices
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Ann Phi-Wendt on 05 May, 2008 01:05:00
 
Global food prices have risen dramatically in the past year  57 percent,
according to the United Nations' Food Price Index. That's particularly
troubling for the global poor, who already spend most of their income on food.
That may be hard for Americans to contemplate, but the same food pressures are
being felt here, and the evidence is the price of your favorite foods in the
grocery store aisles.
The upward trend in food prices means low-income households and those on a
tighter budget have fewer options. Some food prices have gone up spectacularly,
like eggs, which have gone up 30%.
The biggest factor is the higher cost of fuel, which increases commody costs.
'The Takeaway' looks at the food chain and how rising prices affect farmers,
distributors and consumers.
"The Takeaway" is PRI's new national morning news program, delivering the news
and analysis you need to catch up, start your day, and prepare for whats
ahead. The show is a co-production of WNYC and PRI, in editorial collaboration
with the BBC, The New York Times Radio, and WGBH.
"The Takeaway" launches nationwide on April 28, in Baltimore, Boston, New York,
and other markets -- get details on stations and air time. The show is also
available online at thetakeaway.org.
More "The Takeaway"