Millions at risk as UK food prices rise amid Middle East crisis

WorldFood
18 Mar 2026 • 10:21 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Food insecurity in the UK has risen, with 12 per cent of households (6.3 million adults) and 15 per cent of households with children (2.2 million children) affected in January.
  • This marks an increase from 11 per cent of households experiencing food insecurity in June last year, reversing a previous decline after the cost-of-living crisis peak in 2022.
  • The Food Foundation warns that a prolonged conflict in Iran could further exacerbate food insecurity by increasing energy costs and restricting fertiliser supply, driving up supermarket prices.
  • The cost of a typical shopping basket has already surged by 33 per cent since April 2022, highlighting existing strain on household budgets.
  • The charity is advocating for a 'Good Food Bill' to establish a resilient domestic food supply and protect citizens and farmers from future price shocks.

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