EFRA Committee Food Security Inquiry - Which? response

Summary:

1. Food prices have risen dramatically over the last few months and Which? research shows that as a result many consumers are having to change their shopping habits and - in some cases - take drastic measures, with 16% missing meals and 3% resorting to food banks this month.
2. The government has a crucial role supporting people who are being hit the hardest. This includes measures such as expanding eligibility for free school meals and the healthy start scheme. As well as a nutritional safety net, people need reassurance that food safety and standards will be maintained and upheld for domestic and imported products so that as people are forced to trade down they know that they will still be protected.
3. An ambitious cross-governmental joined up food strategy, that builds on the Defra food strategy published in June, is needed to ensure a more resilient and sustainable food system that can better withstand shocks and support people in making affordable and healthy choices.
4. Food businesses also have an important role supporting people through this time of crisis. Supermarkets should ensure that their pricing is clear and more transparent by making unit pricing much more prominent, legible and consistent - and displaying it for promotional offers - so that people can easily work out which is the best deal.
5. Supermarkets should also support people in making affordable choices by ensuring that a range of budget lines for essential items are available across their stores, and particularly in locations where people most need support. They should also use their marketing budgets and promotions to tailor support to those who are struggling, including offers, vouchers and loyalty cards benefits focused on the places and households where people are most in need.