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Waitrose Reports Shift to Full-Fat Staples as Shoppers Shun Ultra-Processed Foods

The retailer cites year-on-year sales data alongside a survey of roughly 4,400 customers.

Overview

  • Sales of large potatoes are up by about a third, with searches for “jacket potato” on Waitrose.com rising 178% year on year.
  • Full-fat dairy is gaining share, including a 56% rise for No.1 Organic Ayrshire Unhomogenised Whole Milk, a 25% rise for Duchy Organic Unhomogenised Whole Milk, and a 13% lift for No.1 French Salted Butter.
  • Waitrose describes a “great carb comeback,” linking stronger demand for staples like beans and bread to interest in fibre and gut health.
  • A company survey indicates 57% of respondents sometimes replace a meal with snacky foods, which Waitrose associates with reduced appetites from weight-loss injections.
  • Shoppers are gravitating to pork and lesser-known fish such as ray wings, up 21% year on year, while mock meat, sliced bread and Dubai chocolate are reported in decline.