New research from Gousto has found that more than 1 in 4 Brits say they spend more on food during the summer months, with the figure rising sharply among younger generations. The findings suggest that increased outdoor dining and spontaneous summer plans, from barbecues to impromptu picnics and meals with friends, are contributing to higher grocery bills.
Who is spending more on food this summer
| Generation | Say they spend more on food during summer |
|---|---|
| Gen Z | 38% |
| Millennials | 34% |
| UK average | 27% |
| Gen X | 23% |
| Boomers | 17% |
| Silent Generation | 9% |
Londoners (35%) and those living in the West Midlands (34%) are the most likely to see their grocery bills rise during the warmer months. This compares with just 19% in Wales.
Changing summer eating habits
The research suggests many people move away from structured meals in favour of more spontaneous eating during summer. Compared with the rest of the year, 36% of Brits say they eat more cold meals, 30% cook less often, and more than 1 in 4 admit they eat picky bits or snack-style meals instead of sitting down to a proper meal.
This shift is even more pronounced among Gen Z, who report the highest rates of summer food spending. More than a quarter say they eat picky bits instead of regular meals, 27% snack throughout the day, and 17% order more takeaways during the summer months.
Nearly 1 in 5 Brits also say keeping food costs under control is one of their biggest summer meal-planning challenges, while 16% worry about food waste.
Sophie Nahmad, Lead Recipe Developer at Gousto, said: “Summer naturally changes not just what we eat but how we eat. We’re more likely to have spontaneous barbecues and convenience foods. Those changes often lead to extra supermarket trips, impulse purchases, and ingredients going unused.”
“A little planning, making the most of seasonal ingredients, and preparing a few meals or snacks ahead of time can help keep costs under control without taking away the spontaneity of the season.”
5 ways to keep summer food bills under control
- Shop for flexible ingredients: “Choose ingredients that can work across several meals so you’re not making extra supermarket trips every time plans change.”
- Recreate summer fakeaways: “Homemade burgers, kebabs, and burrito bowls are often much cheaper than ordering in and usually leave enough for another meal.”
- Plan your snacks: “Prepare fruit, vegetables, hummus, or yoghurt pots in advance to avoid buying expensive snacks when you’re out and about.”
- Get ahead with meal prep: “Prep grilled chicken, cooked grains, chopped vegetables, or homemade dressings in advance for quick meals when plans change.”
- Eat what’s in season: “Build meals around seasonal ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, courgettes, and berries. They’re often at their best value during summer.”