The latest index showed food prices soared in August this year compared with August in 2021, logging the fastest-increase in the price we pay at the supermarket since 2009. Overall food inflation was 8.3% annually in August, a price rise not seen for 13 years with grocery food prices increasing by 8.7%, driven mostly by higher prices for eggs, yoghurt, and cheddar cheese. Stats NZ data from the Food Price Index shows the price of tomatoes has risen by 162% since 2009. It says increased costs to grow tomatoes coupled with low prices is not sustainable and will force growers out of business. Supermarket chain Foodstuffs has been releasing its own data to highlight that it is also paying increased prices, but to its suppliers.

Source: Stuff September 18, 2022 08:55 UTC