The national average retail price of white pan bread has seen a notable decline in August 2025, dropping to 184.1¢ per loaf, down 1¢ from July and 11¢ from August 2024. This decrease is significant, especially considering the price sensitivity of consumers and the broader food inflation trends. The national price per pound for white pan bread was 268.4¢, marking a 1.5¢ monthly decline and a 16.1¢ annual decrease. As food prices continue to fluctuate, this dip in bread prices offers a welcome respite for consumers.
A Closer Look at Bread Prices
The decline in bread prices is a notable trend, especially when compared to other bakery products. For instance, the CPI for bread stood at 237.9 in August 2025, a 0.1% decrease from July and a 0.2% drop versus August 2024. While white bread’s index rose 1% monthly to 433.9, non-white bread fell 1.4% to 458.1. Related items like fresh biscuits, rolls, and muffins (234.6, up 0.3% annually), cakes and cookies (372.8, down 0.1% annually), and crackers (435.6, up 2.8% annually) show varied trends.
| Bakery Category | CPI August 2025 | Monthly Change | Annual Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bread | 237.9 | -0.1% | -0.2% |
| White Bread | 433.9 | +1% | – |
| Non-White Bread | 458.1 | -1.4% | – |
| Fresh Biscuits, Rolls, Muffins | 234.6 | – | +0.3% |
| Cakes, Cupcakes, Cookies | 372.8 | – | -0.1% |
| Crackers and Related Products | 435.6 | – | +2.8% |
If you’re a bakery owner looking to capitalize on the trend, consider submitting your dessert recipe to be featured on a popular food blog. This can help increase your visibility and attract more customers.
Long-Term Context: Bread Prices and Inflation
White bread prices in 2025 are 3,186.7% higher than in 1939, reflecting a significant increase over the years. Despite this, August 2025 saw a rare dip in bread prices, contrasting with U.S. food prices, which rose 3.2% year-over-year. This highlights how the bread price drop stands out against long-term inflation trends.
Summer 2025 Bread Price Trends
According to FRED data, the average price for white pan bread per pound in August 2025 was $1.841, down from $1.851 in July and $1.864 in June. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 0.2% monthly decline in cereals and bakery products, marking the second consecutive monthly drop. This trend indicates a stabilization in bread prices after a period of inflation. For more information on food price trends, you can visit the FRED website.
Comparing Bread Prices to the Broader Food Basket
The CPI for all food at home decreased 0.1% in August 2025, while the CPI for cereals and bakery products fell 0.3% year-over-year to 355.7. In contrast, the food-at-home price index rose 0.9% annually, underlining bread’s unique trend. As reported by BakingBusiness.com, “The national average retail price of white pan bread was 184.1¢, down 1¢ from July and down 11¢ from August 2024.” This emphasizes the significance of the price drop. If you’re interested in learning more about the broader food price trends, check out this article on food and beverage price value in 2025.
Expert Insights and Industry Analysis
Experts note that the decline in bread prices could be attributed to various factors, including changes in consumer demand and supply chain adjustments. As the market continues to evolve, bakeries may need to adapt their strategies to remain competitive. For instance, some bakeries are expanding their product lines to include more whole-grain options, as seen in Bimbo’s recent expansion. If you’re a dessert shop owner, you might want to consider submitting your business to a local dessert directory to increase your online presence.
Recent CPI Changes Across Bakery Products
Some specific products with recent CPI or price changes include:
– **White pan bread**: 184.1¢ per loaf, 268.4¢ per pound
– **Bread other than white**: CPI 458.1 (down 1.4% monthly)
– **Fresh biscuits, rolls, muffins**: CPI 234.6 (up 0.3% annually)
– **Cakes, cupcakes, cookies**: CPI 372.8 (down 0.1% annually)
– **Crackers and related products**: CPI 435.6 (up 2.8% annually)
– **Frozen/refrigerated bakery products**: CPI 347.2 (down 0.8% annually)
For the latest data, you can visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
