According to Good Housekeeping magazine’s annual study, cited by The Guardian, a classic Christmas meal could cost UK households 13% more than last year, as costs continue to rise dramatically.
According to the report, shoppers will have to spend at least £33.08 ($42.30) to feed eight people.
According to the report, the cheapest feasible price for a basket of 11 dinner items this year will be at least £4.14 per person, up from £3.67 in 2022.
According to reports, the cost increase is nearly quadruple the overall rate of inflation, which stands at 4.7%. However, the increase is substantially smaller than the 35% increase in the cost of Christmas dinner observed in 2022.
According to the survey, prices for carrots and Brussels sprouts have risen the greatest – more than 150% for each – due to harsh weather and poor growing circumstances. Retailers have also warned that other vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower, are also in short supply. The cost of parsnips has increased by 71%, while the cost of potatoes has increased by 45%.
According to Good Housekeeping, the cost of turkey is up 11% (£1.50 per person) this holiday season. Mince pies cost 15% more, but Christmas pudding costs 1% less. There was no change in the price of brandy butter or cranberry sauce, according to reports.
“The increase in the price of a Christmas dinner reflects ongoing high food inflation in 2023, which still stood at 10% in October,” said Richard Caines, the principal analyst for UK food and drink at the market research firm Mintel.
“The impact of rising production costs including high energy costs, along with the impact of poor weather on growing conditions, have contributed to the higher prices of root vegetables, undoubtedly pushing up the price of traditional Christmas favourites including carrots and parsnips,” Caines said in the report.
On the plus side, some stores, including Tesco, have begun their holiday promotion with low-cost bargains on a festive feast “bundle.”
“To help keep Christmas food costs down this year, shop around for the best deals, and always go to the supermarket with a shopping list – and stick to it.” Don’t be swayed by advertisements for holiday food you don’t need and will likely waste,” Emilie Martin, the head of consumer affairs.
