The structure of the beef and pork processing industries, among other agricultural sectors, hasn't negatively impacted commodity or food prices, according to a new report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

The report concluded that increased concentration has occurred at all levels of the food marketing chain in all agricultural sectors since the 1980s, but overall food prices and food prices in each of the five major agricultural sectors have risen nearly as much as prices for consumer goods and services through July 2008.

Additionally, the report states that empirical economic studies do not establish that concentration has adversely affected commodity or food prices. Most of the studies reviewed either found no evidence of market power or found efficiency effects that outweighed the market power effects of concentration.

The 2008 rise in commodity and food prices more likely was caused by factors including higher energy costs and growing world demand for grains, experts said.

To view the entire report, click here. 

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