Those of us who pay attention to market and industry trends relating to food storage and preparedness typically have to go beyond the usual conversations offered up by mainstream media for a more comprehensive variety of information. But we don’t mind, in fact, we’re used to a little extra effort.

Through my own broadened search for more insight and perspective into the world of food storage I’ve discovered that there is still a disproportionate number of people who would like us to believe that the idea of a food crisis is some kind of crazy conspiracy theory. Now I don’t mean to sound the alarm here, but I do want to keep this fresh on the minds of all our prepper friends out there.

So to stay on top of what I consider to be a worrisome trend, the idea to write today’s post is based on a recent earnings report from General Mills. As one of the largest food producers in the world with some of the most recognizable brands, the company announced that earnings rose 51% in their fiscal fourth quarter. Good news for a great American company and its share holders. Unfortunately, they also expect the cost of their ingredients to increase by about 11% in fiscal year 2012. Not so great news for consumers.

Sadly, the trend has been heading in this direction for some time now, and the scope of an announcement like this seems to put it in perspective for a lot of people who would otherwise be fine to ignore the looming effects of inflated food prices in a struggling global economy. But the chances are good you’ve already felt the pain in the checkout line of your local grocery store, and the Consumer Price Index is still suggesting that the price of all food will increase this year on an average of 3-4%–the highest rate in roughly 25 years.

The idea that our systems of food production and distribution are reliable and secure has become a questionable notion. As announcements similar to this one from General Mills continue to rattle the food industry and impact our financial markets, as well as the decisions we make as consumers, the ramifications of inflated prices will undoubtedly have a heavy toll on everyday living for many families.

We will continue to monitor the changes and implications of announcements like this, as they will have significant impact not only the food storage industry and those who support it, but people everywhere.

As always, be sure and browse through the pages of this blog and check back often for updates as we continue to provide useful tips, recommendations and information on how to make food storage work for you in these challenging times.