The cost of a typical family barbecue in the UK has risen by 43% over the past five years, with the price of burgers increasing by as much as 83%, according to a new analysis. The Liberal Democrats, who conducted the research, attribute these price hikes partly to "Trumpflation," a term they use to describe the economic impact of actions by U.S. President Donald Trump, specifically citing his "war with Iran" as a contributing factor to soaring global food and fuel costs.
A shopping basket for a family of four, including burgers, sausages, and corn on the cob, cost an average of £14.28 at Tesco and £12.69 at Waitrose in 2021. This same selection now costs £21.14 at Tesco and £17.41 at Waitrose.
Specific product price increases include a pack of four burgers at Tesco, which rose by 83%, and a pack of 10 cheese slices, up by 63%. In Waitrose, the price of two corn on the cob increased by 55% over the same five-year period.
The Liberal Democrats are calling on the government to address the rising cost of groceries, which they argue is straining household budgets. The party has proposed a "Good Food Bill" to establish long-term targets for food security, production, and affordability, aiming to provide farmers with investment certainty and shield consumers from price volatility.
"More inflation is the absolute last thing people need as they already struggle with the cost of living and soaring bills," said Daisy Cooper, the Liberal Democrats' Treasury spokeswoman. "It is not fair that families here in Britain are being priced out of enjoying a barbie because of Trumpflation and the Government's failure to tackle the cost of living."
The party advocates for immediate measures such as cutting fuel duty and implementing a long-term plan to support British farmers to help mitigate price spikes. The analysis and subsequent calls for government action highlight concerns over the affordability of everyday goods in the UK.