UK shoppers buy more fruit and yoghurt in healthy start to 2026

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Julia KolleweFebruary 3, 2026 at 09:42 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

In January 2026, UK shoppers increased purchases of healthy foods like fruit and yoghurt, driven by New Year's resolutions. A report by Worldpanel by Numerator found that grocery price inflation eased to 4%, the lowest since April. Sales volumes of fresh fruit, dried pulses, fresh fish, poultry, and chilled yoghurt increased, with cottage cheese seeing a significant rise. While interest in Veganuary declined, shoppers focused on high-protein and high-fibre foods. Waitrose reported a return to alcohol purchases mid-January. Consumers prioritized value, with own-label products accounting for a record 52.2% of grocery spending. Spending on promotions also increased, reflecting a focus on budget management after December's high spending.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Waitrose 50% Fraser McKevitt ×260% Worldpanel by Numerator 70% United Kingdom 80%

Keywords

healthy eating 90% grocery price inflation 80% fruit and yoghurt 70% own-label products 70% household budgets 60% high-fibre products 50% high-protein foods 50% alcohol sales 40%