Holiday food prices surge up to 70% as climate and economic pressures hit christmas tables

British families are facing a significantly more expensive Christmas this year, with some festive foods costing up to 70% more than in 2024, according to new research from consumer advocacy group Which?

The steepest price increases have hit Christmas chocolate treats, which have seen the most dramatic mark-ups of all seasonal items analyzed. Meanwhile, turkey prices have jumped by as much as £15 per bird compared to last year, putting additional strain on household budgets during the holiday season. The consumer champion’s comprehensive analysis examined pricing across a wide range of traditional Christmas dinner ingredients and popular festive treats, including mince pies, sparkling wine, and various chocolate products.

These dramatic price increases reflect broader economic pressures affecting food systems, including ongoing supply chain disruptions, energy costs, and climate-related impacts on agriculture. The food price surge comes at a time when many families are already grappling with cost-of-living pressures, potentially forcing difficult choices about holiday traditions and celebrations.

The findings highlight how environmental and economic factors increasingly intersect to affect everyday consumers, as climate change continues to disrupt agricultural production while economic instability drives up costs throughout the food supply chain. For many households, this Christmas may require creative adaptations to traditional menus as families navigate these unprecedented price increases during what is typically the year’s most food-focused celebration.