Food price inflation reached its highest level in almost six years, according to a retail group

According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), food prices in the UK last month reached their highest inflation rate in nearly six years.

Extreme weather conditions last year – hot and cold – hit crop planting, driving up prices for things like onions, potatoes and cabbages.

But the BRC also said that world grain prices are increasing the cost of bread.

This means that food price inflation reached 2.5% in March, up from 1.6% in February, its highest level since November 2013.

Overall, retail price inflation increased to 0.9% in March from 0.7% in February, the highest rate of inflation since March 2013 , according to the BRC-Nielsen store price index.

Last year, farmers faced delays in planting caused by Beast from East from February, followed by rains, which caused flooding in parts in April, and a prolonged summer heat wave that affected returns.

"Brexit chaotic without compromise"

The increase in the cost of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages also contributed to the rise in the inflation figure.

Helen Dickinson, director general of the BRC, warned that rising food prices would not be slowed down if Britain left the EU without a trade deal.

"The biggest threat to food inflation remains the risk of a chaotic Brexit without agreement, which would lead to higher prices and fewer choices on the shelves," she said. .

"In order to avoid this scenario, parliamentarians from all parties must find a compromise that allows for a majority in the House of Commons."

Mike Watkins, retail and business manager at Nielsen, said the numbers underscore the pressures food retailers face, which have seen their sales slow since the start of the year.

But he suggested that consumers who buy non-food items enjoy some relief.

"Prices for fashion, home and outdoor retailers are not growing, which is good news for shoppers because late-season ranges are selling well," Watkins said. .