Catalonia food prices drive calls for public supermarkets

Rising food prices in Catalonia are driving discussions regarding the necessity of public supermarkets to assist residents struggling to meet basic needs. Since 2020, food prices have increased by 34%, with essential items such as bread, oil, and eggs seeing significant hikes. According to FACUA, some basic products rose between 1.5% and 11% this summer compared to last year.

Research from the Barcelona Urban Research Institute (IDRA) indicates that Catalan families spend an average of 475 euros per month on food. In the Barcelona metropolitan area, food is the second largest household expense after housing. In Catalonia, food costs account for approximately 16% of domestic expenses, while housing represents 30%.