‘Many young parents buying less meat amid cost-of-living crisis’

Over a quarter parents with young children are less meat amid the cost-of-living crisis, new research shows.

According to a survey by Red Tractor and YouGov, 27 per cent of parents with young children are buying less meat while 18 per cent are also purchasing less fruit and vegetables in a bid to save money.

For 39 per cent, meat has been switched with carbohydrates such as bread and pasta to stop their children from going hungry.

The research found that while 33 per cent of families are buying food that they consider to be lower quality, only 20 per cent of consumers without children are doing the same.

Over half (55 per cent) also stated that they believed cheaper food was of a lower quality, with 19 per cent thinking this was less safe.

“We are making it clear to consumers that families should never have to make a choice between quality, safety and value when it comes to their child’s nutrition,” Red Tractor CEO, Jim Mosely told The Grocer.

“That’s why assurance marques are so vital, so when parents see the Red Tractor logo they know that whatever the price point it’s safe, traceable, and farmed with care.”

The survey result comes as grocery inflation hit a record high of 16.7 per cent.

Market researcher Kantar said grocery inflation was at its highest since it started tracking the figure in 2008, with prices rising fastest in markets such as milk, eggs and dog food.

It said UK households now face an additional £788 on their annual shopping bills if they don’t change their behaviour to cut costs.