As the U.S. annual inflation rate climbed to 7 percent in December, the highest level since June 1982, new data show that almost every category was higher in the 12 months ending in December. Food prices surged 6.3 percent, while energy was up 29.3 percent. New vehicles and used cars and trucks soared 11.8 percent and 37.3 percent, respectively. Apparel jumped 5.8 percent, shelter picked up 4.1 percent, and medical care services inched higher 2.5 percent. Close to every food item cost more last month compared to the same time a year ago, including meat and fruits and vegetables. In the overall category of meat, poultry, fish, and eggs prices swelled 12.5 percent. Beef and veal prices were up 12.6 percent, pork prices surged 15.1 percent, ham rose 10.5 percent, and chicken soared 10.4 percent. The cost of eggs spiked 11.1 percent, while fish and seafood rose 8.4 percent. Fruits …