A recent analysis by the Food Foundation reveals that 1,000 calories of healthy food, including fruits and vegetables, costs £8.80, while the same caloric intake from less healthy options, such as ready meals and processed meats, costs £4.30. This pricing disparity raises concerns about low-income families' ability to afford a nutritious diet.
The study evaluated 450 items used by the Office for National Statistics for monthly inflation calculations, grading them based on nutritional value per Food Standards Agency guidelines. Findings indicate a growing gap over the past two years, with healthy food prices increasing by 21% compared to an 11% rise for less healthy options.
The Food Foundation warns that 60% of the estimated eight million households experiencing food insecurity in 2024 have reduced fruit purchases, and 44% have cut down on vegetables. The research suggests that the poorest families would need to allocate 45% of their disposable income to meet government-recommended dietary guidelines, a figure that rises to 70% for families with children.
Colette, a mother of two working multiple jobs, shares her struggle: "It's a bit soul-destroying [shopping] at a normal supermarket sometimes, even in some of the cheaper ones." She relies on her local Bread and Butter Thing food pantry, where surplus food is offered to the community. "I want to be able to provide for my children. I don't want to feel like I'm a complete failure as a mother to provide a decent meal every evening," she says.
Julie, a 59-year-old unable to work due to ill health, also depends on the pantry, stating, "I've had panic attacks at the till worrying that I've not got enough money." Julcine, another pantry user with two-year-old twins, emphasizes the importance of providing healthy food for her children despite higher costs.
Anna Taylor, executive director of the Food Foundation, highlights the challenges faced by parents: "Trying to feed children well, particularly on low incomes, is like a high-wire act." The organization urges the government to incentivize businesses to make nutritious food affordable. Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner acknowledges the report's findings, emphasizing collaboration with the food sector to address these issues.
Source: BBC