Shoppers at major UK supermarkets including Tesco, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's are being encouraged to change their shopping habits and head to one specific aisle to combat rising food costs.
The often-overlooked World Foods aisle is being highlighted as a secret weapon for families looking to stretch their budgets further during the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Substantial Price Differences Revealed
Consumer experts have identified significant price disparities between products found in the World Foods section and their standard supermarket counterparts.
At Sainsbury's, a jar of the supermarket's own paprika powder costs £1.10 for a 44g jar, working out at £2.50 per 100g. However, in the world foods aisle, a 400g bag of Natco paprika is priced at just £2.20 – a mere 55p per 100g. This represents a saving of £1.95 per 100g compared to the own-brand version.
Experts at The Sun confirmed the trend, stating: "Items like spices, chillies and rice can often be found for cheaper – and in larger sizes – from this section."
Practical Switches for Immediate Savings
Shoppers can make simple product swaps to see an immediate reduction in their shopping bill. Here are some of the most effective changes you can make on your next visit:
- Udon Noodles at Tesco: Switch from Amoy Udon Thick Noodles (300g for £2.15) to Tiger Tiger Udon Noodles (400g for £1.55) for a 60p saving.
- Red Lentils at Sainsbury's: Opt for Laila Red Split Lentils (1kg for £2.00) over Sainsbury’s own Red Lentils (1kg for £2.50).
- Chopped Tomatoes: Choose KTC Chopped Tomatoes (400g for 65p) instead of Napolina Chopped Tomatoes (400g for £1.00).
- Chickpeas: Select KTC Chickpeas (400g for 65p) over Napolina Chickpeas (400g for £1.00).
- Lime Pickle: Buy Kohinoor Lime Pickle (300g for £1.90) rather than Pataks Lime Pickle (170g for £2.00).
These switches not only save money per item but often provide more product for a lower overall cost.
Broader Economic Context
This shopping advice comes as the UK receives some positive economic news. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that annual inflation, as measured by the consumer prices index, cooled for the first time in five months. It fell back from a peak of 3.8% recorded over July, August, and September.
Commenting on the economic outlook, Suren Thiru, the Economics Director at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, said: "Though the conditions for a December interest rate cut are falling into place, the budget is a last obstacle as rate-setters will want to gauge the effect of the policies announced before authorising another rate reduction."
For now, savvy shoppers can take immediate action by exploring their supermarket's World Foods aisle to ease the pressure on their household finances.
