There are many factors to the increase of wheat prices in America. Here are just a few:
· We are now importing wheat – whereas we used to be wheat exporters.
· We have paid farmers to switch from edible crops to ‘burnable’ crops for fuel
· We are paying higher gas prices to transport what wheat we do have.
· Rice is scarce as well, so other countries who usually focus on rice as a staple (which is most all other countries than the US/Europe) are now shifting to adding more wheat in their diets.
The problem of the wheat prices and the at least 75% increase in the last 3 months is not something we can readily do anything about. It will take a few seasons to combat the increase by beefing up the supply compared to the demand. Not only the demand of wheat is at stake, but the demand on rice, that effects wheat, the demand on gas, that effects transport and biodiesel fuels, which place a demand on land that could be used for growing wheat, but instead grows corn or soy to burn to transport wheat that isn’t there anymore.
This cycle seems like a gerbil wheel – that someone else stuck us on. So, what to do now?
While rice and wheat are being either highly priced or limited due to store rationing, we have to look to other alternate grains and learn to work with them. Learn to use grains such as Rye, Kamut, Spelt, Millet and others. Learn to have smaller portions of breads and pastas and increase corn breads and barley breads.
All grain is not wheat. If we will look to some alternatives, we can stave off the demand on wheat in this current season, and maybe even expand our diets to include some more healthy choices of grain.
Best Blessings!
Donna Miller
Popular Questions
Wheat prices have increased—what should buyers do now?
Review current wheat needs, inventory levels, and purchase schedules before committing to new orders. Compare prices from several suppliers and ask about contract terms, delivery dates, storage fees, and quality specifications. If supply is available, consider securing only the quantity you can store and use reliably rather than making a rushed large purchase.
Why have wheat prices increased, and what does it mean for consumers?
Wheat prices can rise because of weather-related crop losses, reduced global supply, higher transportation costs, currency changes, or stronger demand. Higher grain costs may eventually affect flour, bread, pasta, baked goods, and other wheat-based products. Consumers can manage the impact by comparing brands, reducing waste, buying practical quantities, and watching for temporary promotions.
Should farmers sell wheat now that prices have increased?
Farmers should compare the current price with production costs, storage expenses, cash-flow needs, and realistic price expectations. Selling a portion of the crop can lock in revenue while leaving some inventory available if prices rise further. Use written bids or contracts that clearly state grade, delivery location, payment timing, and any quality discounts.
How can businesses manage risk after wheat prices have increased?
Businesses that use wheat should calculate how much higher grain costs affect each product, batch, or serving. They can review supplier contracts, stagger purchases, adjust inventory targets, reduce production waste, and evaluate carefully communicated price changes. A written purchasing plan with target volumes and review dates can reduce exposure to sudden market moves.
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