What we spend on food . . .

Pundits have been comparing our current economic times to those of the Great Depression, and while food prices are on the rise, American spending on food today pales in comparison. In 1933, we spent 25 percent of our income on food; last year, only 9.8 percent. It's true - food prices are increasing, but when you look at the numbers, the growing cost may not be as significant as you might think. $719 The current U.S. median weekly income. $70.50 Current average weekly food expenditure in the U.S. 60% The increase in the prices of commodity foods - such as corn, wheat, rice, soybeans, etc. - over the last two years.