UK inflation fell to 3.2% in the 12 months to November.

The data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed inflation was at its lowest in eight months but was still above the 2% target set by the Bank of England.

A reduction in food prices contributed to the inflation fall, but Karen Betts, chief executive of The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), said prices are still higher than when compared to the same period last year.

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“It’s good to see food inflation starting to fall, not least as shoppers fill their cupboards for the festive season,” she said.

“Nonetheless, food prices remain higher this Christmas than last and many consumers are having to make tough choices about what they buy this year.”

The latest inflation figure marks the lowest rate in eight months but remains above the Bank of England’s 2% target.

Betts added: “Manufacturers continue to work hard to cut costs and pass any potential savings on to consumers, but themselves continue to face significant cost pressures.

“To really impact this persistent food inflation, we need Government to redouble efforts with food businesses to reduce costs, like energy, and boost growth and productivity to bring down prices in the coming weeks and months across the food and drink supply chain.”