That still seems excessive. Are the food costs really high there?

I wouldn't know unless I could compare to someplace that's "average". I gotta admit, though, fresh produce and raw ingredients (especially meat) are NOT the most inexpensive way to eat. People (around here) who sneer at the expense of prepackaged food should maybe look again.

I've decided that's the great unifier between Republican and Democrat, by the way. Sneer at women who don't cook.