Newly-compiled data has revealed how much more a typical Christmas dinner will cost on average this year compared to last.
The average prices for turkey, Christmas pudding, Brussels Sprouts, and gravy granules have risen in 2021 according to data compiled by Kantar – which showed that the average price of a typical festive meal for four was about 89p higher than in 2020, Sky News reports.
It comes after grocery inflation rose by 3.2% in the first four weeks of November.
Although the prices of some festive dinner favourites have risen this year, costs are down on other items such as parsnips, cranberry sauce, and carrots.
The average cost of a Christmas dinner in 2021 is £27.48.
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The average cost of a Christmas dinner in 2021 is £27.48. / Credit: Kantar
Overall, Kantar’s analysis of the prices of Christmas dinner favourites showed the cost of frozen turkey was up 7% at £12.46, and Christmas pudding up 5% at £2.48, while Brussels sprouts rose 5% to 92p, cauliflower added 5% to 90p, and gravy granules rose 3% to £1.39.
Sparkling wine was unchanged at £6.47, while cranberry sauce is down 3% at 90p, potatoes are down 5% to £1.10, and carrots are 13% lower at 41p.
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After revealing that the overall grocery inflation rate climbed to 3.2% in the four weeks to 28 November – which is the highest level since June last year – Kantar also said that prices are rising fastest for savoury snacks, crisps and cat food.
Prices have however fallen for items such as fresh bacon, bath and shower products and pet treats too.
It comes after grocery inflation rose by 3.2% in the first four weeks of November / Credit: Unsplash (Kraken Images)
Fraser McKevitt – Head of Retail and Consumer Insight at Kantar – explained that price inflation did not seem to be denting shoppers’ appetites to treat themselves however, as supermarket premium own-label ranges appeared to be the fastest-growing in stores.
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“Habits we’d expect to see shift, like swapping branded products for own label or seeking out promotions, haven’t altered just yet,” he added.
The figures also showed that, for the 12 weeks to 28 November, grocery sales fell by 3.8%.
This was compared with the same period last year, which was a time when the COVID-19 pandemic meant that consumers bought more food and drink to eat at home as fewer were choosing not to, or were unable to eat out.
BBC needs adventurous Mancs to take part in next series of Race Across the World
Emily Sergeant
Are you a fan of travelling? Got a bit of a competitive streak in your nature? This might just be your calling then.
The BBC is currently casting for the next series of Race Across the World.
The BAFTA-winning hit show is currently airing to thousands of viewers each week, but with the next series now in the works, producers are on the look-out for ‘intrepid duos’ of all ages who reckon they’re ready to take a step into the unknown, and embark on an epic race across land and sea – and that includes Greater Manchester residents.
With applications for the next series of the massively-popular show now open, nomadic Mancs are being encouraged to take part.
On a limited budget and away from the luxuries of modern technology and conveniences, those lucky applicants selected to take part in the next series will get the chance to experience life in some of the world’s most beautiful and remote locations.
BBC is looking for Mancs to take part in next series of Race Across the World / Credit: BBC
Navigating their way across thousands of miles, they’ll travel through spectacular scenery and dynamic cities, visit ancient wonders, learn local customs, and take part in time-honoured traditions.
But, as producers are keen to point out, “the physical journey is only half of the story”.
That’s because, as the contestants take on the challenge of travelling across the world, the greatest thing they’ll discover along the way could actually be about themselves and one another.
Putting out a UK-wide casting call on the BBC website this week, producers Studio Lambert wrote: “We are now accepting applications for the next series of Race Across the World. This experience is open to all, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or total novice.
“We want to hear what undertaking a trip like this would mean to you, and with a cash prize at stake, what lengths you would go to to win.
Applications for the massively-popular show are now open / Credit: BBC
“Maybe you’re looking to change something in your life? Or are keen to share the journey with someone special like a family member, best friend, or someone you’ve lost touch with. You may even have a very personal reason for wanting to travel at this time in your life or explore a particular part of the world.”
Fancy it then?
Applications for the third series of Race Across the World are now open for anyone over 18 years of age, with a deadline date of 6 July 2025, and you can find out more information and apply via the BBC website.
Patrice Evra issues passionate plea to Manchester United as he must miss the Europa League final
Danny Jones
Ex-Manchester United star Patrice Evra has issued a passionate appeal to his old club ahead of the Europa League final, as he reluctantly prepares to miss the game.
Evra, 44, has remained an avid Man United fan even since he left the club back in 2014 and doesn’t miss a game if he can, often lending his punditry services to the likes of Sky Sports of TNT Sports.
However, despite the biggest game of their season coming up this Wednesday, 20 May, the Frenchman has been forced to skip the match due to a recent bereavement.
Nevertheless, Evra has taken time to issue a rallying cry to Ruben Amorim and his Red Devils, urging them to “be United” and “fight” just like his loved one.
As explained in the short video, the retired left-back’s sister recently passed away at just 56 after a long battle with cancer.
Visibly emotional but determined in the clip, Evra starts by sharing his “positive energy” before trying to inject some defiance.
Noting that his sibling fought for her life for more than two decades, he goes on to add, “That’s what I want from you [United players and fans] tomorrow: just fight — bleed for this shirt, for the fans, the staff, for the people of Manchester.”
Stating that there is “no excuse” for failure and that winning their first European trophy in seven years is their “duty”, he called on the team to channel the commitment and dedication of those travelling from all over the world to see them take on Spurs in Bilbao.
As for the former French international himself, he will be making his return to sport only in an entirely different arena, with a combat sports debut coming very soon.
Wait until you see who he called out… To be fair, I think we’d prefer to watch the Evra fight even more than the Europa League final.
While the comments underneath the post are obviously filled with lots of condolences for his loss, lots of supporters are also taking further faith and motivation from his competitive spirit.
It’s a big game for the club and so many across Greater Manchester; you only have to glance at social media to sense the palpable tension. For instance, if you’re a Red, you don’t want to scroll past the video down below.
Go on then – do you think United are going to do it?
Emily Sergeant -
7th December 2021 
