NielsenIQ

School supply and lunch costs have risen significantly, with prices for 21 common school items up 7.7% on average, totaling $173.45 per family. School lunch essentials increased by 11%, adding nearly $4,000 annually. Tariffs and the war on Iran are cited as contributors to rising costs, particularly for imported goods like blueberries.

Prices for school supplies and lunch staples have surged by 8% and 11% respectively since 2025, driven by factors like the Iran war and President Donald Trump's tariffs. Groundwork Collaborative and The Century Foundation, using NielsenIQ data, found significant cost increases for items like lunchboxes and paper, with families projected to spend $4,000 annually on supplies and lunches.

Gen Z is reshaping the alcohol industry by prioritizing quality over quantity, with a 2025 Gallup poll showing 54% of U.S. adults now consume alcohol, the lowest rate in 90 years. Bartesian, a home cocktail machine company, highlights this shift as consumers seek premium, at-home cocktail experiences using real ingredients.

U.S. grocery prices have risen sharply post-pandemic but remain slow to decline, a phenomenon economists call 'rockets and feathers.' Prices peaked at 11.4% in 2022 and are projected to rise 2.7% this year, with factors like high gas prices and reduced government aid affecting spending. Consumers are shifting to discount retailers and store brands to save money.

U.S. grocery prices have risen sharply post-pandemic but remain elevated despite overall inflation slowing, a phenomenon economists call 'rockets and feathers.' Prices are expected to rise 2.7% this year, close to the historical average, as consumers shift to discount retailers and store brands to manage costs.

U.S. grocery prices have surged post-pandemic ('rockets') but remain elevated despite slowed inflation ('feathers'), with a 2.7% annual rise expected. Consumers are shifting to discount retailers and store brands amid persistent high costs, driven by factors like the U.S.-Iran conflict and reduced government food aid.

U.S. grocery prices have surged post-pandemic ('rockets effect') but remain elevated despite easing inflation. Prices rose 11.4% in 2022 and are projected to increase 2.7% this year, with factors like high gas prices and reduced government food aid slowing consumer spending. Shoppers are shifting to discounters and store brands to mitigate costs.

Americans continue to prioritize protein consumption despite record beef prices, with 70% seeking more protein in their diets. Experts emphasize that the 'healthiest burger' depends on individual health goals, noting that beef, poultry, seafood, and plant-based options all have roles. Beef prices reached $9.64 per pound in April 2025, up 14% year-over-year.

Gen Z and Gen Alpha are driving a shift in snack preferences, favoring simpler ingredients and more nutritional benefits, leading to a major shake-up in the grocery industry. Thirty-five percent of parents prioritize natural ingredients, while 34% seek high-protein options. This change is pushing brands to rethink their ingredients and marketing tactics.