‘Have Gone Beyond Whole Foods’: Florida Shopper Says She ‘Can’t’ Shop At Publix Anymore After Seeing Price Of Milk, Oscar Mayer Bacon, And Hillshire Farm Meat

A customer is calling out Publix, saying that even basic foods have become unaffordable for the average household.

Publix is a beloved Florida-based supermarket chain with more than 1,400 stores across the Southeast. It’s built a loyal following thanks to its reputation for friendly customer service, clean stores, and fresh food. Shoppers also rave about the deli (especially the “Pub Subs”) and generally say the shopping experience is better than at other grocery chains.

But as food inflation lingers, even loyal shoppers are pushing back at totals that feel out of step with household budgets.

While grocery prices nationwide have risen in recent years, a shopper is pointing out how even basic staples, like milk, bacon, and lunch meat, have become financial markers for consumers who say they can no longer afford their go-tos.

Shopper Says Publix Is Too Expensive

In a trending video with more than 54,000 views, frustrated shopper Chrissy (@keeping_up_with_chrissy) called out Publix for pricing she says is simply unaffordable.

“Why I can’t shop at Publix anymore. A half gallon of milk, $3.55. That’s why I can’t shop at Publix anymore,” Chrissy says in the clip, while pointing out the item on the shelf.

She continues, “Bacon for $15.99. This is why I can’t shop at Publix anymore. Lunch meat, $8.99.”

In the caption, Chrissy went on to say that while she loves Publix as a grocery store, “my wallet does not.”

“Prices have gotten so out of hand, I walked in for a few basics and left questioning my entire life plan. This is exactly why I can’t shop here anymore, because who can afford these prices?! Watch how fast my total adds up…” she said in the caption.

Why Do Groceries Cost So Much?

Donald Trump campaigned on bringing down grocery prices, but many shoppers say the relief hasn’t come.

A new poll shows 53% of Americans call grocery costs a “major” stress, while only 14% say they’re not stressed at all, CNN reported.

Inflation on groceries has cooled from a 9.4% peak in 2022 to 2.4% over the past year, but that doesn’t mean prices have fallen. Instead, staples like eggs, beef, and orange juice remain high, sometimes going up even more because of supply disruptions and extreme weather.

Trump’s tariffs have added another layer of pressure, raising costs for imported items like coffee, fruit, and canned goods. Economists warn that prices could rise further once businesses run through old inventory and start paying full freight on imports.

Shoppers are already changing how they buy food. Many are turning to coupons, buying smaller sizes, skipping extras like snacks, and cooking at home more.

Companies are feeling the squeeze. Kroger says customers are cautious across income levels, while Mondelez, the maker of Oreos and Chips Ahoy, reported weaker snack sales in North America.

Commenters React

“​​Publix is a SCAM,” a top comment read.

“Publix prices have gone beyond Whole Foods…while the quality has gone down,” a person said.

“Publix worker here…I can’t afford Publix on my paycheck…” a worker chimed in.

“Aldi for the win,” a commenter said.

BroBible reached out to Chrissy for comment via email and Instagram direct message and to Publix via email.