Changes in food expenditures by income group

Abstract: The impact of higher income and other demographic and socioeconomic changes on consumer's retail food expenditures at different income levels was examined for a twelve-year period. Food expenditures and incomes were compared by family groups according to families income. The study was based on the 1960-61 and 1972-73 Consumer Expenditure Surveys conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Labor. Low-income families spent a slightly greater portion of their income for food in 1972-73 than they did in 1960-61, as food expenditures increased more than before-tax income. In contrast, higher income groups spent a smaller portion of their income for food. Away-from-home food expenditures (restaurant meals and snacks) increased for all income groups. Wealthieir families accounted for most of the expenditures in the away-from-home market. The income studied did not include in-kind transfers, other Government subsidies, private industry benefits, or the assist position of the different groups. The study was based on the most recent and comprehensive food expenditure data.