Such a deal: Stock up on wieners for the holiday

They're down 41 percent compared with last year, according to BIGinsight, a consumer information firm (via OC Register). American cheese is priced 21 percent lower than in 2011 and potato chips are 16 percent less. The average cost of a holiday barbecue for four is $59.17, down from $61.18 a year ago (but still up from $54.62 two years ago). By the way, did you know that 67.6 percent of Americans plan to celebrate the Fourth with a cookout? Just be careful about paying for the buns. From press release:

"With grocers relying on select loss leaders to drive consumers into their stores for the upcoming 4th of July holiday, we may see a few fireworks among competing retailers," said Pam Goodfellow, Consumer Insights Director at BIGinsight. "Expect budget-oriented shoppers to rely on ad circulars, coupons, and even their mobile devices as they seek out the best prices for their cookout supplies - which may or may not be at their favorite grocery store this year."

Keep in mind that these are national averages.

Hamburger patties (2 lb) $5.55 -10.2%

Hot dogs $1.66 -40.9%

American cheese 2.17 -21.4%

Hamburger buns $1.04 -4.6%

Hot dog buns $1.04 -4.6%

Lettuce $1.36 -0.7%

Relish $1.26 -0.8%

Tomatoes (1 lb.) $1.65 4.4%

Chip dip $1.53 -9.5%

Ketchup $1.94 -1.0%

Mustard $1.66 14.5%

Sodas (12-pack) $3.08 5.8%

Beer (12-pack) $9.74 -2.5%

Watermelon $4.46 +1.4%

Charcoal $8.24 11.2%