The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.8% in the 12 months to December, matching the increase in November. Food prices rose 1.5% on a year-over-year basis in December following a 1.7% increase in November. Consumers paid 2.2% more for food purchased from restaurants and 4.4% more for meat. In contrast, prices declined 5.8% for fresh vegetables. Prices for household operations, furnishings and equipment increased 1.3% year over year in December, as consumers paid 4.2% more for financial services. Shelter costs increased 0.6% in the 12 months to December after rising 1.0% in November. Rent and homeowners' replacement ... (full story)