Rising food prices pushed UK shop inflation higher in December, prompting criticism from the SNP who say families are paying the price for Labour failure as living costs continue to climb.
New figures published by the British Retail Consortium and NIQ show food inflation rose to 3.3 percent in December, up from 3 percent the previous month.
Fresh food prices increased even faster, climbing to 3.8 percent in December compared with 3.6 percent in November.
The data highlights renewed pressure on household budgets at a time when many families are already struggling with higher energy bills and everyday costs.
Helen Dickinson said shop prices rose as food inflation accelerated and warned further pressures remain.
“Shop price inflation edged up in December as food prices rose at a faster rate.
“Increased public policy costs and regulation will likely keep inflation sticky.”
The figures were published a day after Keir Starmer said the UK had turned a corner on the cost of living.
They also follow a rise in energy prices on the 1st of January, marking the fifth increase since Labour entered government.
The current energy price cap stands at £1758, up £190 from the £1568 level in July 2024 when Labour came to power.
During the general election campaign, Labour pledged to reduce household energy bills by £300.
Based on current figures, bills would now need to fall by almost £500 to meet that commitment.
The SNP says the combined impact of rising food prices and higher energy costs is worsening the cost of living crisis for families across Scotland and the wider UK.
Dave Doogan said the latest data showed living standards deteriorating under Labour.
“This is more bad news on the soaring cost of living under Keir Starmer, which once again means families are paying the price for Labour Party failure.
“Under the Labour government, Broken Brexit Britain has gone from bad to worse.
“Food prices have gone through the roof, energy bills are £490 higher than promised, UK unemployment is at a five year high, the UK economy has been downgraded, and public finances have deteriorated.
“Hard pressed families are struggling to get by.”
Mr Doogan said voters in Scotland faced a clear choice at the Scottish elections in May.
“Keir Starmer has been worse than useless and should go before he does any more damage.
“In May, voters in Scotland can sack Keir Starmer, prioritise the cost of living and secure a fresh start with independence by voting SNP.”
