Research from the consumer comparison site Which? has suggested many popular branded food products have doubled in price in the last two years.

Which? compared the prices of the 79 items at Asda, Morrisons, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose over a 30-day period from September 21 to October 20 in both 2020 and 2022.

Heinz Tomato Ketchup was one item which saw a marked increase, with its 460g top-down version going up by 53% or 91p across six of the supermarkets.

In fact it went as high as 70% or £1.06 in one particular supermarket, the study said.

Classic Cream of Chicken Soup - also from Heinz - went up an average of 46% from £1 to almost £1.50.

Bournemouth Echo: Many branded items were seeing increases of 40% or more in the two year periodMany branded items were seeing increases of 40% or more in the two year period (Image: PA)

Dolmio's Lasagne Sauce (470g) was up an average of 47% or 61p, Hovis Granary Wholemeal (800g) was up by 43% or 58p and Batchelors Super Noodles Bbq Beef Flavour (90g) went up by 43% or 23p.

Meanwhile, the sharpest individual rise at one supermarket was for Twinings Everyday 100 Tea Bags which went up by £2.33 or 64%.

Overall the average rise across the supermarkets with that product was 17% or 64p.


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Sue Davies, Which? head of food policy, said: “Our research shows the shocking rate of inflation on some of the nation’s favourite branded foods, which is much higher than the national average and highlights why it is so important for retailers to provide people with a choice of product ranges.

“Supermarkets must ensure budget lines for healthy and affordable essential items are widely available across their stores including smaller convenience stores.

“Promotions should be targeted at those most in need and people supported so they can easily compare the price of products to get the best value.”