Gen Z being forced to go hungry with almost one in three skipping meals

Gen Z being forced to go hungry with almost one in three skipping meals EXCLUSIVE: UK food prices have increased by around 30% since 2022, according to The Food Foundation - but there are ways to cut costs Gen Z shoppers are being forced to go hungry as food costs soar, with almost one in three skipping meals or eating less, according to new research. Cashback app Tuck found 33% of Gen Z consumers - those born between 1997 and 2012 - are going without. This is compared with 11% of 35 to 44-year-olds and 19% of people overall. More than eight in ten Gen Z shoppers (83%) have also changed the way they shop due to rising food costs, compared with 76% of all people overall. More than half (58%) are shopping around multiple supermarkets or have switched where they shop, while 48% have started planning their meals. On average, Gen Z shoppers are now spending £84 a week on groceries – £24 more than a year ago. UK food prices have increased by around 30% since 2022, according to The Food Foundation. There are several reasons why food prices have gone up in recent years, including higher energy costs and supply chain constraints from global conflicts, as well as climate change impact and increased labour costs. Neel Thakrar, CEO of Tuck, said: "The figures show just how significant the pressure of rising grocery costs is for younger adults. "Gen Z are making changes across almost every part of their food shopping, from buying fewer treats and switching to cheaper products to avoiding spontaneous purchases and shopping around for the best prices. "But the most concerning finding is that almost one in three Gen Z consumers are now saying they are skipping meals or eating less because of rising food costs." Earlier this month, the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) warned soaring temperatures and droughts across the UK and Europe are set to drive food prices higher. The FDF said “fruit, vegetable and grain supply” are being hit by recent heatwaves, with these crop shortages then set to feed into supermarket prices. Economists from the trade group suggested that this will put upward pressure on food inflation going into 2027. Dr Liliana Danila, chief economist at the FDF, said: “Competition for fewer resources will in turn push up the price of ingredients for manufacturers. “The UK’s food and drink manufacturers work hard to absorb costs where they can, but are already grappling with rising costs as a result of war in Ukraine and in Iran, so we expect the additional upward pressure of reduced crops will be reflected in retail prices into next year.” How to save money in supermarkets Keep an eye out for those yellow stickers. The best time for these discounts is typically toward the end of the day, although this does vary between stores. You could also try the Downshift Challenge, which is where you swap branded goods for supermarket-own. Depending on what you buy, you could save around 30% on your food bill. It also pays to compare prices using sites such as Trolley.co.uk which takes into account live prices across all the major supermarkets and other popular retailers. Other tips include being organised. By writing a shopping list and sticking to it, you will reduce impulse buys when you're in the store. Finally, use your freezer to avoid throwing away food that can be eaten at a later date. You can tell if food can be frozen by checking product packaging for freezing instructions. [Image text:] ogurts&desserts