ABJ - Aug 19 - The Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) increased 0.5 per cent in July on a seasonally adjusted basis, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 3.6 per cent before seasonal adjustment.

The gasoline index rebounded from previous declines and rose sharply in July, accounting for about half of the seasonally adjusted increase in the all items index. The food at home index accelerated in July and also contributed to the increase, as dairy and fruit indexes posted notable increases and five of the six major grocery store food groups rose.

The index for all items less food and energy increased as well, though the 0.2 per cent increase was slightly smaller than the two previous months. The shelter index accelerated in July, and the apparel index again increased sharply. In contrast, the index for new vehicles was unchanged after a long string of increases. The index for household furnishings and operations was flat in July as well, and the recreation index declined slightly.

The 12 month change in the all items index remained at 3.6 per cent for the third month in a row. The change in the index for all items less food and energy continued its upward trend, rising to 1.8

 per cent in July, with the shelter and apparel indexes contributing notably to the acceleration. The energy index has risen 19 per cent over the past year.