Navigating the Cost-of-Living Crisis: Balancing Food Safety and Affordability

A recent analysis of a Food Standards Agency (FSA) survey has uncovered a concerning trend: individuals worried about food prices are more likely to engage in risky food safety practices in an effort to save money. The data, drawn from the Consumer Insights Tracker covering July 2023 to March 2024, sheds light on the difficult choices consumers are facing amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and food price inflation.

Safeguarding Health in Times of Financial Strain

The Prevalence of Risky Behaviors

The survey findings indicate that financial pressures are driving some consumers to adopt unsafe food handling practices in an attempt to cut costs. In March 2024, one in four respondents reported engaging in at least one risky food behavior within the past month, such as reducing cooking times or turning off refrigerators and freezers containing food.The incidence of these risky actions was found to be higher among certain demographic groups, including those from ethnic minority backgrounds, individuals with health conditions or disabilities, and younger adults under the age of 35. This suggests that the cost-of-living crisis may be disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable members of society.

Prioritizing Affordability over Safety

When prompted with various food-related issues, consumers expressed the greatest concern about prices, followed by concerns about ultra-processed foods and food poverty and inequality. Notably, those who were worried about food affordability were more likely to report taking food safety risks, such as lowering cooking temperatures or turning off refrigerators and freezers, in an effort to save money.The survey also found that around three in 10 of those concerned about food affordability had eaten items past their use-by date in the past month, as they could not afford to purchase more.

Balancing Priorities: Navigating the Challenges

"This latest data shows that the cost of buying food is still a worry for most consumers. It is particularly concerning that some say they are resorting to risky food safety practices to save money," said Michelle Patel, deputy director of analysis at the FSA.The findings highlight the difficult trade-offs consumers are facing, as they strive to maintain food security while also prioritizing their health and safety. The cost-of-living crisis and food price inflation have created a challenging environment, where some individuals feel compelled to compromise on food safety in order to make ends meet.

Rebuilding Confidence in the Food System

Despite these concerning trends, the survey also revealed some positive developments. Overall confidence in the food supply chain has increased from 55% in July 2023 to 60% in March 2024, with three in four respondents expressing confidence that those involved in the supply chain ensure food is safe to eat.Moreover, more than three-quarters of respondents were confident that the FSA can be relied upon to protect the public from food-related risks and that the agency takes appropriate action on these issues. Two-thirds of respondents were also confident that the FSA is committed to communicating openly with the public about food-related risks.These findings suggest that while the cost-of-living crisis has led some consumers to engage in risky behaviors, there is still a strong foundation of trust in the food system and the regulatory bodies tasked with ensuring its safety.

Addressing the Challenges Ahead

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact households across the UK, it is crucial that policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumer advocates work together to address the complex challenges facing food security and safety.Strategies may include targeted financial assistance programs, educational campaigns on safe food handling practices, and enhanced communication and transparency from regulatory bodies. By taking a holistic approach that prioritizes both affordability and safety, the food system can better support consumers during these challenging times and ensure that no one is forced to compromise their health in the pursuit of making ends meet.