Sirloin steak now 5 more expensive per kg than last year as food prices continue to soar, says CSO

"It is estimated that food prices for a family of four have shot up by around €3,000 in the last four years. Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures for September show that inflation rose to 2.7pc in the year September, up from 2pc the previous month. One of the main reasons for this was a 4.7pc surge in food prices in the year to September."

"This reflects rocketing price rises for meat and milk. The cost of sirloin steak has now become unaffordable for many. It is now €22 per kilogram, a rise of €5 in the past year alone. Overall inflation is now at its highest level since March last year, the CSO said. The national price of a pint of Guinness is up 25c in the past year to more than €6, the statisticians said."

"CSO statisticians said that over the past year there has been a rise in the prices of milk, bread, cheese, butter and spaghetti. Alcohol prices are also up after breweries increases costs for publicans and off-licences. The national average price for a large white sliced pan increased by 5c in the year to September , the CSO said. The same-sized brown sliced pan increased by 3c in the year."

Food prices for a family of four have risen by about €3,000 over the past four years. Inflation rose to 2.7% in the year to September, up from 2.0% the previous month, driven largely by a 4.7% annual rise in food prices. Meat and dairy have seen sharp increases: sirloin now costs €22/kg, up €5 year-on-year; roast beef topside or rib is €15.91/kg; Irish cheddar €11.21/kg; butter per pound rose to €4.81. Grocery staples such as milk, bread, cheese, butter and spaghetti increased, while potatoes fell. Alcohol and insurance costs also climbed.

Read at Irish Independent