Tomatoflation is the latest extreme price increase to hit grocery bills. The reasons why are alarming (opens in new tab)

Grocery prices keep rising, and one ingredient crucial to BLTs, salads, and fresh salsas has gotten particularly expensive. Tomato prices are up a staggering 40% compared to a year ago, according to the latest . Fresh vegetables in general have gotten more expensive—up nearly 12% from a year ago—and prices for groceries like coffee (up 18.5%) and beef (up about 15%) have all increased. But tomatoes in particular stand out, with prices hitting $2.69 per pound in April, the highest level That p...