WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S. — The Consumer Price Index for food and beverages was unchanged in July, holding steady at 233.5, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor. The food index rose 0.1% in July, which comes on the heels of a 0.2% gain in June.

For the second consecutive month, the major grocery store food groups were mixed in July, with three rising and three declining.

The two sharpest gains were scored in cereals and bakery products, which gained 0.3% to 268.4, and in meats, poultry, fish, and eggs, which gained 0.3% to 231.3.

Also advancing during July was the index for food away from home, which increased 0.2% to 238.3.

Dairy and related products continued its slide, falling 0.5% to 214.4. The index now has declined in six straight months.

Also easing 0.5% in the month was the index for non-alcoholic beverages. The index fell to 167.4 from 167.8 in June.

The fruits and vegetables index, which was the big mover in June rising 1.3%, fell 0.3% in July to 280.2.

The food at home index was unchanged in July after a slight decline in May and a slight increase in June. The index has increased 1.9% over the past 12 months.

The overall Consumer Price Index was flat for the second consecutive month. Over the past 12 months, though, the index has increased 1.4%.