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As grocery store prices rise, Labor Day deals can save you money on meats, cheeses

Meat is one of the food groups experiencing the steepest price increase, with the cost of beef and veal rising 20.2 percent.

TAMPA, Fla. — Planning on grilling and cooking up a storm this weekend for the Labor Day holiday? It'll cost you more thanks to rising grocery store prices. But if you're a savvy shopper, you may actually be able to save thanks to weekend sales. 

Whether it's the cost of eggs or meat, nearly every food price is rising. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, over the past two years, beef and veal saw the biggest price spike of 20.2 percent, eggs rose 10.4 percent, chicken 8.6 percent and pork 8.5 percent.

Initially, it was supply chain interruptions due to coronavirus that caused prices to skyrocket. Many grocery stores said they simply had trouble keeping their shelves stocked. But as supply problems settled, prices kept rising with no real reason except a healthy demand for groceries since people are doing more cooking at home.

It's simple economics: demand is high, and that makes prices go up. With prices high, you may be able to save a few bucks on your grocery bill by taking advantage of Labor Day deals that grocery stores are offering this weekend, especially on meats.

Several big chains, including Publix, Kroger and Sprouts, have price cuts and deals this weekend specifically on hot dogs, chicken, burgers and pork. In addition to meats, there are big sales on cheeses, condiments and other Labor Day essentials like chips and drinks. 

And, even if you aren't planning a Labor Day party, you can still stretch your grocery dollars by buying in bulk. Buying meats in bulk and freezing them, while they are at these sale prices, can help save you a few bucks. 

Cost-saving experts recommend a few other ways to save money, including downloading the store's app to check for coupons there and join their free rewards program. Apps like Fetch Rewards and Ibotta are also big on money-saving techniques when buying items you need.

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