The latest consumer price inflation data has been published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), finding that meat contributed a downward effect to the change in the annual rate.
The price of food and non-alcoholic beverages rose by 3% in the year to April 2026, down from 3.7% in the 12 months to March. Food and non-alcoholic beverage prices were little changed on the month in April 2026, but rose by 0.7% a year ago.
The Consumer Prices Index rose by 2.8% in the year to April 2026, down from 3.3% in the year to March. On a monthly basis, CPI rose by 0.7% in April 2026, compared with a rise of 1.2% in April 2025.
ONS reported downward effects to the change in annual rate from meat, as well as four other food and non-alcoholic beverages classes. This was a change on the previous month, which saw meat have an upward effect on the change in annual rate.
Downward contributions were counteracted slightly by upward effects from vegetables, milk, cheese and eggs.
IGD observes “lag effect” on food supply chain as Middle East conflict continues
James Walton, chief economist at the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD), commented: “Contrary to what might be expected given the wider geopolitical landscape, food inflation was 3% in April, compared to 3.7% the previous month but this remains above long-term averages. This is likely due to a lag effect as food supply chains do not adjust instantly to global events and energy, labour and input costs can take months to filter through to shelf price.
“However, there are signs that the conflict in the Middle East is beginning to have an effect in the supply chain, as farmers are having to contend with higher diesel prices now and the possibility of raised fertiliser prices next season. With this in mind, one of our most recent forecast scenarios put food inflation between 4.3-5.3% as an average over 2026.
“The continued raised food inflation is having an ongoing impact on shoppers, as IGD’s ShopperVista data shows food price concerns are at the highest level for three years, with food prices (94%) sitting above energy prices (86%) as their biggest concern.”
