WASHINGTON — The Consumer Price Index for food and beverages was flat in November, finishing at 234.7, the same as in October, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor. The food index also was unchanged, ending at 234.9 in November.

Five of the six major grocery story groups posted increases in the month, led by dairy and related products, which advanced 0.8% in November. Four of the six groups scored gains of at least 0.4% during the month.

The index for nonalcoholic beverages, which declined in October, rose 0.5% in November, while the index for other food at home increased 0.4%.

The index for cereals and bakery products, which increased 0.4% in October, rose 0.3% in November.

The index for fruits and vegetables followed up a 0.6% increase in October by increasing 0.2% in November.

The only major category to finish lower was the index for meats, poultry, fish and eggs, which fell 0.3% during the month.