UNITED STATES - We here at ANUK have been tracking the impact of inflation on this industry since back in March, as critical challenges have risen from production to transportation and beyond. In recently released government data, inflation accelerated across the United States in the month of May, with the price of fruit and vegetables jumping 8.2 percent over the last year.

According to CBS News, U.S. inflation jumped to 8.6 percent overall in May, reaching the steepest increase since 1981, with the data for the month suggesting that inflation may not yet be close to peaking. Food prices overall saw a jump of 10.1 percent over the last year.

Sal Guatieri, Senior Economist with BMO Capital Markets explained to the source that there may be little respite from this high inflation until energy and food costs simmer down and excess demand pressures abate.

Fresh produce suppliers have also seen the impacts of inflation in the transportation sector, as gasoline prices hit new records in May and June. With these prices at a new record high, companies have also encountered challenges with rising transportation costs.

We will continue to bring updates on the industry as fresh produce providers and buyers battle rising costs to bring fresh produce to consumers. Stay tuned for our next report.