The Latvian PTAC reports that low-price grocery baskets at supermarkets typically cover only 7 out of 10 necessary food categories, impacting consumer options.
The Public Utilities Commission of Latvia (PTAC) has conducted monitoring over a 32-week period, revealing that the low-price grocery baskets offered by supermarket chains only encompass an average of 7 of the required 10 food categories. This figure has remained unchanged for a prolonged period, indicating a persistent issue for consumers. The range of categories covered varies depending on the retailer, spanning from 4 to 9 categories, which is insufficient for meeting consumer needs.
The identified categories that are part of the low-price basket include essential items such as bread, dairy products (including cheese, sour cream, yogurt, and buttermilk), fresh vegetables and fruits, various meats (pork, poultry, beef, veal, lamb, and goat), fresh fish, eggs, flour, and vegetable oils. The PTAC emphasizes that for these low-price baskets to effectively support Latvian citizens, it is critical that at least one product from every food category established in their memorandum be included in these offerings.
The report highlights a significant gap in category coverage which limits consumer choices when seeking to purchase basic necessities at the lowest prices available. PTAC has urged retailers to ensure that they provide a more comprehensive selection that meets the everyday requirements of consumers, thereby enhancing access to essential food products at affordable rates.
