Families Struggle as Food Prices Spike 5% in Ireland

Food prices in Ireland have surged by an average of 5% over the past year, placing immense pressure on households already grappling with the rising cost of living. Families are increasingly forced to make difficult choices, often prioritising their children’s needs over their own. As the economic landscape becomes more challenging, many are living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to cover basic necessities.

To gain insight into the impact of these price hikes, we reached out to our readers for their personal experiences. The stories reveal a common theme: families are severely altering their spending habits in an attempt to make ends meet. One mother shared, “By the end of the month, we cannot afford a full shop, and my husband and I often skip meals so our children can eat.”

Another reader expressed frustration at how even budget-friendly options have become unaffordable. “I’m buying the own brand of absolutely everything, but my grocery shopping seems to rise on a weekly basis.” These sentiments reflect a growing concern among families about the sustainability of their current living situations.

Real Stories from Struggling Families

Ann, a mother in her 40s, highlighted the drastic changes her family has faced. She compared shopping receipts from August 2024 to August 2025 and noted that prices had increased by over 8%. “Quick, processed foods like pizza and chips are often cheaper than fresh, healthy options, so we rely on them more than I would like,” she explained. The financial strain is compounded by back-to-school costs, forcing her to borrow money just to keep food on the table.

Another anonymous mother, a single parent on disability allowance, described her struggle to support her children. With limited income, she is left with €244 a week to cover all expenses. “I sit in the dark at night-time trying to save electricity,” she said, showcasing the lengths she goes to in order to manage her limited resources.

Deborah, a 54-year-old resident of Dublin, expressed her disbelief at the soaring prices. “It feels like shops are just charging whatever they want now,” she lamented. She has reduced her purchases of fresh fruit and other once-frequent items due to their increasing costs.

Impacts on Health and Quality of Life

For many, these financial constraints are not just an inconvenience; they have serious implications for health and well-being. A 35-year-old from Kerry, living on disability allowance, conveyed her fears about the future. “I feel like I’m living on a knife’s edge,” she said. “One more price increase, and I’m scared I’ll end up without a place to live.”

Another reader shared her experience as a caregiver for her 13-year-old son, who has specific dietary needs due to his autism. She struggles to afford gluten-free foods and has resorted to skipping meals herself to ensure her son has enough to eat. “I’m going to bed some nights starving,” she admitted, highlighting the dire situation many face.

The testimonials collected reveal a pattern of families reducing their standard of living. Anne, a single parent, noted that she can no longer afford basic luxuries or even social outings. “I bring my food to work and go for a walk during my lunch break,” she said, emphasizing the sacrifices she makes to stay afloat.

As winter approaches, the worries intensify. Families like Anne’s are anxious about increased heating costs, as many have already cut back on essentials. “I’m not looking forward to winter or Christmas. It looks very challenging this year,” she stated.

The stories shared by readers underscore a growing crisis as households across Ireland adapt to rising food prices. With many expressing a need for government intervention, the call for support has never been more urgent. As families grapple with these ongoing challenges, the hope for a change in circumstances remains a distant yet necessary aspiration.