(qlmbusinessnews.com . Wed 29th Jan, 2025) London, UK —
Analysis Shows Healthy Food Costs More Than Twice As Much As Unhealthy Options.
A recent analysis by the Food Foundation has revealed that purchasing healthy foods costs more than twice the price of less nutritious alternatives, highlighting a growing affordability crisis for low-income families.
The study found that 1,000 calories of healthy food, such as fruits and vegetables, costs an average of £8.80. In contrast, 1,000 calories of less healthy options, such as ready meals and processed meats, costs just £4.30.
The rising cost of healthy eating has sparked concern that many families are being priced out of nutritious diets. The Food Foundation warns that 60% of the estimated eight million food-insecure households have reduced their fruit intake, and 44% have cut back on vegetables.
The research indicates that the price gap has widened over the past two years. While healthy food prices have risen by 21%, less healthy options have only increased by 11%.
The charity found that the poorest households would need to spend up to 45% of their disposable income to follow government recommendations for a healthy diet — a figure that rises to 70% for families with children.
The Human Impact
Families relying on community pantries like the Bread and Butter Thing in south Manchester are struggling to afford nutritious meals.
Julie, 59, who cannot work due to health issues, said she would be “lost” without access to affordable food. “I would love to go to a shop and not worry about money. I've had panic attacks at the till worrying that I've not got enough,” she shared.
Julcine, a mother of two-year-old twins, is determined to feed her children healthy food, even though it costs more. “For your children, you have to buy the expensive thing. If supermarkets could bring prices down, it would make a huge difference,” she explained.
Anna Taylor, Executive Director of the Food Foundation, criticised the current system, stating that parents are being “set up to fail.” She described feeding children well on a low income as “a high-wire act.”
Calls for Action
The Food Foundation is urging the government to incentivise businesses to make healthy foods more affordable and accessible.
“This is a crucial moment for the government to learn from past mistakes and encourage the production of nutritious food at affordable prices,” Taylor added.
In response, Food Security and Rural Affairs Minister Daniel Zeichner acknowledged the concerns raised by the report. He stated that the proposed National Food Strategy aims to address these issues by collaborating with the food sector to transform the industry.
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