Bulging Wallets: Food Inflation Surges 2% Since Christmas
Since Christmas, Bulgarians have felt the pinch of a 2% increase in the cost of groceries, according to Vladimir Ivanov, the Chairman of the State Commission for Stock Exchange and Financial Instruments, who shared this news on Nova TV‘s "Wake Up" show.
The surge in prices, Ivanov noted, includes staple foods such as grains, dairy, and meat. He clarified that commodities like coffee and cocoa are affected by global factors first, namely severe droughts and recent floodings. "Cabbage is the biggest winner in the price increase contest," Ivanov stated, with prices soaring by 53% compared to last year. Tomatoes, too, have seen a significant 21% price hike.
Vegetables like bell peppers and citrus fruits, excluding lemons, remain at last year’s levels. Pork and chicken meat prices have been stable as well. However, olive oil prices have climbed by 13% due to a poor harvest. Ivanov’s update serves as a timely reminder for consumers to watch their budgets as the new year unfolds.
As prices continue to fluctuate, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about market trends and choose wisely at the supermarket to keep their wallets intact.