American households spent an average of $6,433 on food in 2008 — the most recent year for which data are available — according to the Food Institute. That includes $3,744 on food for at-home consumption in 2008, up from an average of $3,021 in 2004. Households spent an average of $2,698 on food away from home in 2008, up from $2,137 in 2000.
Households headed by 35-54 year olds spent the greatest amount on food in 2008. Those aged 34-44 spent $4,509 on food for home and $3,340 on food away from home for a total of $7,849. Those aged 45-54 spent $4,452 on food for home and $3,935 on food away from home for a total of $7,696.
Seniors spent the least on food in 2008, an average of $3,935. They spent 68% of their food budget on food for home consumption, a greater proportion than any other age group. Those aged 25 and under spent an average of $4,447 on food. They spent 48% of their food budget on food away from home, a greater proportion than any other age group.
The presence of children in a household accounts for the significant increase in food spending by 35-54 year olds. Married couples with children spent an average of $9,478 on food in 2008, compared to an average of $8,255 spent by married couples without children. Single parent households spent an average of $5,162, whereas singles without children spent an average of $4,480.
Not surprisingly, singles spent a greater proportion of their food budget than their older peers on food away from home (43%). Married couples with children aged 18 or older spent greatest amount on food away from home ($4,267) — they are more likely than singles to be well into their careers and earn higher salaries, giving them more disposable income. Single parents spent 63% of their food budget on food for home consumption.
Source: “Demographics of Consumer Food Spending,” Food Institute, Sue Anista, Publications, 10 Mountainview Rd, #S125, Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458; 201-791-5570 x212; sanista@foodinstitute.com; www.foodinstitute.com. Price: $129.
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