Food prices in Wisconsin dip slightly in 3rd quarter

MADISON (AP) -- A survey by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation says food prices dipped slightly between July and September.

The bureau's `marketbasket' survey adds up the cost of 16 common food items. In the third quarter of 2012, the total was $49.60. That's 1.4 percent cheaper than the second-quarter total and about even with the first-quarter price tag.

A similar survey conducted nationwide found the average price of those same 16 items was $51.90.

Federation spokesman Casey Langan says there are no apparent trends affecting food prices right now. He says energy prices have been stable, and the price effect of this summer's drought wo't be felt until next year.

Items whose prices increased at least 9 percent last quarter included eggs and bacon. Potatoes and vegetable oil got cheaper.