UK food prices hit an 18-month high in August, rising to 4.2%, squeezing family budgets.

UK food inflation hit a 18-month high at 4.2% in August, up from 4% in July, driven by higher costs of chocolate, butter, and eggs. Fresh food inflation surged to 4.1%, and overall shop prices rose by 0.9%. The Bank of England noted that the increase in national insurance contributions in April contributed to the rise. Retailers are struggling to limit price hikes due to additional costs from the previous year's budget, adding pressure to families already facing high living costs.