Cost of living: Food makes up majority of NI household spending

A new report from the Consumer Council has revealed that food shopping is now the largest expense for households in Northern Ireland, surpassing other basic necessities like housing, clothing, and transportation. The study, conducted using data from Grant Thornton, found that food costs make up nearly a quarter (23%) of basic spending, indicating a significant increase compared to previous years.

One woman, Jessica Ireland, shared her experience of rising food prices, noting that her weekly grocery bill for her family of five has increased by up to £50. She emphasized that food expenses, next to the mortgage, are her largest financial burden as essential items like diapers, snacks, and shampoo cannot be cut back on. Despite trying to save money by purchasing store-brand items and cooking from scratch, Ireland has noticed that staple items like chocolate, eggs, and milk have become more expensive.

The head of food policy at the Consumer Council, Philippa McKeown-Brown, expressed concern over the impact of rising food costs on low-income households. She highlighted that these families are spending a significant portion of their income on food, often more than on housing or utilities, raising questions about what other necessities are being sacrificed. McKeown-Brown stressed the importance of food as a fundamental right and called for more support for those struggling with food insecurity.

The issue of food affordability extends beyond households, with young adults also facing challenges. A recent survey conducted by the Consumer Council found that nearly half of respondents aged 18-30 worry about running out of food before they can afford more. Many young adults reported skipping meals or going without food for an entire day, indicating a concerning level of food insecurity within this demographic. Factors like low income, disabilities, food allergies, and rented accommodation were identified as common contributors to food struggles among young adults

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