New data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals that the prices of basic budget food items in UK supermarkets have surged significantly over the past year. Vegetable oil and pasta have risen by almost two-thirds, while tea, chips, bread, and biscuits have increased by more than a third.
Overall, the cost of this basket of budget items rose by 17% in the year to September. However, some items saw price decreases, including orange juice and minced beef. The ONS notes that the rise in budget food prices is broadly in line with the wider average food price increase.
The ONS also released new details on the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. Over the summer, nearly half of adults reported struggling to pay their energy bills, with people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and those in rented accommodation most affected.
