How to shop strategically and save money as grocery prices soar

Let's take control of our food bills by shopping intentionally, protecting all perishable foodstuffs, and extending their life

There’s a whole lot we can do to keep our food bills under control by shopping intentionally, protecting all perishable foodstuffs, and extending their life until they become meals on the table. Take command with some proven strategies. File picture

Food prices in Ireland are estimated to have risen around 27% over the last four years, with butter up over €1 per kilogram since last year. The rate over just the last year is an increase of 4.7%, three times the rate of general inflation, according to the Central Statistics Office in Cork (CSO). 

There were price increases in the 12 months to July 2025 for a pound of butter (+€1.08), Irish cheddar per kg (+70c), two litres of full-fat milk (+28c), an 800g loaf of white sliced pan (+5c), and an 800g loaf of brown sliced pan (+3c), according to statistician Anthony Dawson of the CSO.