In a world where access to healthy food is essential for nourishing both body and soul, a troubling trend is emerging: healthy food is becoming increasingly unaffordable for many families. According to a new analysis by the Food Foundation, healthy food options are more than double the cost of less healthy choices, leaving low-income families struggling to meet the nutritional needs of their households. The findings highlight a growing inequality in food access, a situation that calls for both compassionate understanding and meaningful action from those in positions of power.
The Food Foundation’s research reveals that 1,000 calories of healthy food—such as fresh fruits and vegetables—cost £8.80, compared to £4.30 for the equivalent amount of less healthy food, including processed meats and ready meals. This price disparity is growing, with healthy foods increasing in price by 21% over the last two years, while unhealthy options rose by only 11%. As the gap widens, the charity warns that many families are being priced out of a healthy diet. “Low-income families are being priced out of being able to afford to eat healthily,” the Food Foundation states, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all families can access nutritious food.
For many, the financial burden of purchasing healthy food is overwhelming. Research conducted by the charity shows that 60% of the estimated eight million households dealing with food insecurity in 2024 have reduced how much fruit they purchase, while 44% have cut down on vegetables. These statistics illustrate the difficult choices families face when trying to provide healthy meals, and the emotional toll it takes.
One such individual is Colette, a mother of two who works three jobs to make ends meet. Colette explains that even when shopping at discount supermarkets, the cost of groceries is overwhelming: “It’s crazy when you think, ‘I’ve not even got one bag of stuff and it’s £20.'” Colette, like many others, turns to her local food pantry, the Bread and Butter Thing, to access affordable food. “For £8.50, she gets three bags: fresh fruit and vegetables, frozen food, and cupboard staples.” However, she still faces the guilt of not always being able to afford a healthy diet for her children: “I want to be able to provide for my children. I don’t want to feel like I’m a complete failure as a mother to provide a decent meal every evening.”
Julie, another pantry user, shares her struggles. A 59-year-old woman unable to work due to ill health, Julie explains the anxiety she faces while shopping: “I’ve had panic attacks at the till worrying that I’ve not got enough money.” The fear of not being able to afford food is a heartbreaking reality for many. Julie is grateful for the support of food programs, saying, “I would be lost without access to cheap food at the pantry.”
For parents like Julcine, providing healthy food for their children is non-negotiable, even if it means spending more. “For your children, you have to buy the expensive thing, you have no choice,” Julcine says, underscoring the immense financial and emotional strain placed on parents trying to make ends meet.
As Christians, we are called to be compassionate and to care for the most vulnerable in our society. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus teaches us to feed the hungry and care for those in need. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,” He says, “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” The rising cost of healthy food is not just an economic issue; it is a moral one. As a community, we must work to ensure that everyone has access to the nourishment they need to thrive—both physically and spiritually.
The Food Foundation urges the government to act swiftly and create incentives for businesses to make nutritious food more affordable. Executive Director Anna Taylor argues that parents are being “set up to fail” when they are forced to choose between providing healthy food and meeting other financial needs. “Trying to feed children well, particularly on low incomes, is like a high-wire act,” she says. With millions of families struggling, it is clear that the time for action is now.
The government has promised to address the issue of unhealthy diets through its proposed National Food Strategy. Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner stated that the report “highlighted issues that would be addressed in the government’s proposed National Food Strategy.” This commitment is an important step toward ensuring that every family, regardless of income, can access healthy and affordable food.
As we reflect on these issues, we are reminded of our duty to care for those in need. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and part of that love is ensuring that no one is left to struggle for the basic human need of nourishment. It is our collective responsibility to advocate for change and to support policies that will make healthy food accessible to all families. By doing so, we not only follow Christ’s example but also take a crucial step toward creating a more just and compassionate world.
