The Heinz effect: Price of branded food jumps by as much as 107% in two years

The price of some of the most popular branded food products have soared by as much as 107% in the last two years, according to the latest research from Which?.

The study revealed that Heinz Tomato Ketchup saw the biggest average percentage increase overall, with its 460g top-down version increasing by 53% (91p) across six major supermarkets over the two-year period.

Dolmio Lasagne Sauce (470g) saw the second biggest average increase, up by 47% (61p) in two years and as much as 107% (£1.09) in one supermarket.

The consumer watchdog tracked 79 branded products for its survey, comparing the prices at Asda, Morrisons, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose over a 30-day period (from 21 September to 20 October) in both 2020 and 2022.

The data reveals that the cost of some of Britain’s favourite branded products has risen more sharply than overall grocery inflation, which currently sits at 14.7%. It also shows how dramatically pricing of specific products can differ between supermarkets.


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Prices increased across basics such as Hovis Granary Wholemeal 800g – which was up by an average of 43% (58p) – and branded butter, with a 500g tub of Anchor Spreadable up by an average of 45% and a 500g tub of Lurpak Spreadable Slightly Salted increasing by 35% (£1.17).

Which? head of food policy Sue Davies said: “Our research shows the shocking rate of inflation on some of the nation’s favourite branded foods, which is much higher than the national average and highlights why it is so important for retailers to provide people with a choice of product ranges.

“Supermarkets must ensure budget lines for healthy and affordable essential items are widely available across their stores including smaller convenience stores.

“Promotions should be targeted at those most in need and people supported so they can easily compare products to get the best value.”

Which? recently called on supermarkets to do more to support shoppers through the cost-of-living crisis as it revealed the UK’s most at-risk areas for access to affordable groceries.

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3 Comments. Leave new

  • They deserve to go out of business.

    Reply
    • Philip Randles
      November 15, 2022 1:01 pm

      Totally agree Ralph,
      I never realised Tomatoes come from Ukraine!
      Sheer greed, I hope this story is on mainstream media today to show everyone they are being ripped off.
      Tesco should have pulled Heinz permanently.

      Reply
  • Strikes me that quite a number of corners may well be profiteering in the current environment, which seems pretty distasteful. Profit is part of life but this feels like more than this.

    Reply

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