Healthy Food Can Cost More Than Double Poor Choices
A recent study shows that healthy food is often much more expensive than unhealthy options. For instance, getting 1,000 calories from fruits and vegetables costs about £8.80. In contrast, the same amount of calories from ready-made meals and processed foods only costs £4.30.
This price gap is a growing concern for many families, especially those on low incomes. They often struggle to afford a balanced diet. The Food Foundation highlighted that in 2024, around 60% of families facing food insecurity have cut back on buying fruits. Nearly half have reduced their vegetable purchases.
Over the past two years, healthy food prices have jumped by 21%, while less healthy food prices have risen by 11%. This trend makes it harder for financially strapped families to eat well.
Research shows that some families need to spend close to half of their disposable income just to afford a healthy diet recommended by the government. For families with children, that percentage can rise to 70%.
Colette, a mother of two, works multiple jobs to make ends meet. “Shopping can be soul-destroying,” she admits. “You look at your cart, and it’s crazy how fast the total adds up.” To help, she turns to a local food pantry called the Bread and Butter Thing, where she pays £8.50 for three bags of fresh produce and staples.
For many families, like Julie’s, this pantry is a lifeline. Julie is unable to work due to health issues, and she relies on affordable options to get by. “It’s a struggle. I often panic at the checkout, worrying if I have enough,” she shares.
Other parents, like Julcine, prioritize nutritious meals for their children, even if it means spending more. “You have to buy healthy food for your kids, no matter the cost,” she says. She believes if supermarkets lowered their prices, it would make a significant difference for families.
Anna Taylor from the Food Foundation stated that parents are facing impossible choices. She argues that the government needs to step up and provide support to make healthy food more affordable. “Feeding children well on a tight budget is like walking a tightrope,” she explained.
Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security, acknowledged the challenges outlined in the report. He emphasized the need for collaboration within the food sector to make real changes.
The rising cost of healthy food creates an unfair burden, forcing families into unhealthy eating patterns. This struggle not only affects their health but also increases food insecurity. Immediate steps are needed to ensure everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food.
