[bnc319]

$3.37 per CPI Inflation Calculator, though it may be even higher given food has increased above the average.

[abhayhegde]

Sure, but I'm not inclined to believe that number on its own. Practically, even the cheapest grocer like Aldi could turn out to be expensive than the quoted $3.37.

[nverno]

Rice and beans - been my staple for most of my life - isn't too much more than this. Two cup dried rice + two can beans is around $4 and that is generally enough for me. Although it is much better with a few eggs and some hot sauce or salsa as well.

[lxgr]

The CPI is, for largely good reasons, primarily tracking things other than groceries, so it's arguably indeed pretty useless in comparing these over time.

[nicoburns]

I'd bet it's closer to $5 now to buy equivalent food in practice.