Why You'll Need More Green In Your Wallet

Well, we already know beef prices are expect to increase this summer as are pork prices. Now, another news reports predicts we'll have to pay more to eat "greener." So those fresh melons, strawberries, grapes, corn and packaged salad will cost more to enjoy.

The price hikes are the side effects of California's three-year drought that shows no signs of slowing, according to the Wall Street Journal. I know that's not the news you want to hear, but you can start preparing early by modifying your eating and/or purchasing habits.

You should not eliminate fresh produce from you diet even if the prices jump outside your spending comfort zone. Use the alternatives to fresh produce, including frozen and canned fruit. Frozen fruit is an excellent substitute for fresh fruit and has a longer shelf life. Canned items also are solid alternatives to fresh goods.

This latest news affirms summer may be challenging, but not impossible.