As rising prices present a challenge, as indicated by four out of ten respondents who report difficulty in affording groceries, according to a survey released by DECO PROTeste on Tuesday.
The consumer protection organization, which has been monitoring the price of a basket containing 63 essential food items such as meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, and eggs since 2022, states that “prices continue to rise.”
“This basket, which was priced at 188 euros at the beginning of 2022, now costs around 240 euros. In other words, food prices have increased by more than 25% over three years,” the statement reads.
The European survey, conducted by DECO PROTeste along with its European counterparts, also reveals “a growing concern among consumers about sustainability in the food sector.”
Furthermore, “seven out of ten Portuguese respondents support agricultural policies that promote practices protecting the environment and biodiversity, with 66% urging European subsidies to favor farmers who adopt environmentally friendly and animal welfare-conscious practices and who face economic challenges.”
The survey indicates that consumers demand “safer and more sustainable food at affordable prices.”
“Many consumers are willing to pay more for food produced on farms that respect the environment, animal welfare, and farmers, provided European support ensures acceptable prices and credible sustainable practices,” the statement notes.
According to the organization, consumers are calling for agricultural policies to promote the production of affordable food with fewer pesticides and antibiotics, respecting high environmental safety standards and animal welfare.
