Recent data indicates that essential food prices have increased by more than 30% in the UK over the last two years.
- Despite a recent slowdown in price rises, key items such as milk and bread have experienced significant inflation.
- Research highlights substantial price hikes in groceries like cheese, butter, and bakery goods.
- Consumer advocacy groups are placing increased pressure on retailers to offer more budget-friendly options.
- Major supermarkets are adapting by expanding their value and own-brand ranges to meet consumer demand.
Recent research reveals that the prices of essential food items in the UK, such as cheese, butter, and bread, have surged by over 30% in the past two years. This stark increase comes even as overall food price inflation has recently shown signs of slowing down, with a drop to 14.9% in the four weeks leading to 9 July, from 16.5% the previous month.
The study indicates that the cost of milk has soared by 36.4%, making it one of the most affected items. Cheese follows closely with a 35.2% increase, while butter and spreads have risen by 32.2%. Bakery items have also seen notable inflation rates, with cakes and cookies rising by 31.2% and other bakery products by 30.3%.
The price surge is not limited to dairy and bakery products. Meat prices have escalated by 23.6% since 2021, while vegetable prices are up by 19.1%. Further analysis shows that savoury pies and pastries, including quiches, have increased by 26.2%, whereas biscuits have climbed 27%. Juice drinks and smoothies have also seen a substantial rise of 28.6%.
Sue Davies, head of food policy at Which?, emphasised that despite the noticeable advertisements of price cuts, the cost of everyday essentials remains high. She remarked, “Despite well-advertised price cuts, Which?’s tracker shows that the cost of essentials like milk and butter is still very high and piling huge pressure on millions.” Her comments underline the growing financial pressure on consumers, particularly in the context of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
In response to these challenges, some major retailers are already taking steps to help alleviate consumer burdens. Tesco has recently announced an increase in its stocking of own-brand and value ranges within its convenience stores, aiming to provide more affordable options for customers. This initiative mirrors similar actions by other supermarket chains, such as Morrisons, which has introduced its Savers range to better serve low-income families across the UK.
The escalation in essential food prices highlights the urgent need for effective measures from both retailers and policymakers to support consumers.
