Food prices rose 1.8% in September in Spain

In September, the prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages experienced an annual increase of 1.8%, despite a minor decrease of 0.1% from August, as per the National Institute of Statistics (INE). This increase contrasts with the overall Consumer Price Index (CPI) rise of 4% in September, the highest since September 2008, attributed mainly to housing prices and transport costs. The alcoholic beverages and tobacco sector saw a modest year-on-year increase of 0.3% and monthly increase of 0.5%. Notably, prices for oils and fats surged by 23.6%, and mineral water, soft drinks, and juices by 7.3%. In contrast, canned fruits and nuts prices fell by 2.3%, and fresh fruits experienced the largest monthly decrease of 1.5%. Milk and fresh legumes and vegetables became more expensive in September, rising by 1.6% and 1.3%, respectively.