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Healthier Food Prices Rise Twice as Fast as Unhealthy Options, Report Finds

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  • Food Foundation’s Broken Plate report highlights rising cost of healthy food
  • UK’s poorest households must spend 45% of their income on a government-recommended healthy diet
  • Supermarket promotions and advertising heavily favour unhealthy options

A new report has revealed that healthier food in the UK is becoming more expensive at twice the rate of less healthy alternatives, making it harder for low-income households to afford a balanced diet.

The Food Foundation’s annual Broken Plate report found that food lower in fat, salt, and sugar now costs more than twice as much per calorie as unhealthy products. The study also showed that the UK’s poorest 20% of households must spend 45% of their disposable income to follow the government’s recommended healthy diet, rising to 70% for those with children.

Supermarket promotions and advertising trends were also criticised in the report. Over a third (37%) of in-store promotions focus on unhealthy food, while just 2% of food advertising is dedicated to fruit and vegetables. Meanwhile, one in four food outlets in England is a fast-food restaurant, with that figure increasing to nearly one in three in deprived areas.

Anna Taylor, executive director of the Food Foundation, said: “There is a tragic imbalance in the UK between the food that is marketed, available, and affordable, and foods that are healthy and sustainable. Often, it is the most vulnerable children in our society who suffer the worst consequences.”

The government has announced plans for a National Food Strategy to tackle food-related inequalities and improve public health.

Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, commented: “With rising food prices hitting healthier options hardest, many families are struggling to afford nutritious meals. Addressing these imbalances is crucial for improving public health and reducing long-term NHS pressures.”

Comments+20 points
jimmyD

Aye it's strange that when something is said to be 'Healthy' that it becomes more expensive! It's just a Rip off.

Just eat what you want in moderation and you'll be fine.

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ShirleyCarter

Puts an added strain on the NHS, anyone with allergies or illness that means you have to eat gluten free, lactose free etc already pay an inflated price , why should people when it's really not their choice

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