Adults' perceptions of rising food price and their impact on food purchasing: findings from the 2022 International Food Policy Study.

Rising food prices reached record levels in 2022, raising global concern. This study examined consumer perceptions of food price increases in 2022 and their perceived effects on food purchasing in five countries, as well as differences by socio-demographic characteristics and household food security status. Data from 20,240 adults in the International Food Policy Study (2022), a cross-sectional online survey conducted in Australia, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States, were analyzed. Respondents reported whether food had become more expensive for them in the last year and whether they altered ten food purchasing strategies and purchasing of three core and four non-core food categories in response to higher food prices. Regression models assessed differences by country, socio-demographic characteristics and household food security status. Across all countries, 78% to 85% of respondents perceived an increase in food prices in 2022. In response to higher food prices, the most commonly reported food purchasing strategy was switching to cheaper brands (34% to 43%). Despite some cross-country differences, respondents in all countries reported reductions in purchasing of non-core foods, such as desserts and non-alcoholic beverages, but also of core foods, such as fruits and vegetables. In all countries, reported reductions in core food purchases were associated with lower perceived income adequacy and household food insecurity. Most respondents perceived food as less affordable in 2022 and reported diverse shifts in food purchasing as a result, highlighting the need for social and nutritional policies promoting access to affordable food, including nutritious options, for all.