New Year's Food Basket Prices Rise Slower in 2025

The cost of a standard New Year's food basket in 2025 increased by 6% year-over-year, a significant deceleration from the 12% inflation rate recorded in 2024. This moderation in price growth is primarily due to a surplus in production of essential vegetables and proteins.

While the overall basket became more affordable compared to last year's inflation, specific items experienced sharp price increases. Consumers faced higher costs for shprits and chocolate candies, even as prices for root vegetables and eggs declined.

The price hike for New Year's meal ingredients slowed considerably in 2025, rising by 6% annually. This figure stands in contrast to the 12% increase observed during the previous holiday season. The standard basket analyzed includes ingredients necessary to prepare iconic salads such as 'Olivier' and 'Herring Under a Fur Coat,' alongside components for a single hot dish.

The deceleration in inflationary pressure marks a positive shift for household budgets. By comparison, the previous year saw prices climb at double the current rate, making holiday meal planning more challenging for many families.

The primary driver behind the slower overall price growth was a decrease in the cost of specific commodities. Thanks to an overproduction of certain goods, prices for onions, beets, potatoes, and eggs fell. These reductions helped offset increases in other categories, keeping the total basket inflation lower than the previous year.

The specific items that saw price reductions include:

• Onions
• Beets
• Potatoes
• Eggs

Despite the general trend of slower inflation, certain holiday treats became significantly more expensive. Sprats experienced the steepest price increase, rising by 26% year-over-year. This sharp hike suggests a supply constraint or increased demand for this specific canned fish.

Additionally, chocolate candies increased in price by 15%. This rise in confectionery costs outpaced the general inflation rate for the holiday basket, impacting the cost of desserts and gifts.

For consumers, the 2025 data suggests a mixed outlook for holiday spending. The 6% overall increase is manageable compared to the previous year's 12%. Shoppers can expect to pay less for basic staples like potatoes and eggs, which are fundamental to the 'Olivier' salad.

However, budgeting for specific items like sprats and chocolates will require careful planning. The divergence in price movements highlights the volatility of specific food sectors even when broader inflation metrics show improvement.