Lauren Antonenko faces significant dietary challenges due to her battle with multiple autoimmune disorders, including ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, and fibromyalgia. Her strict diet, essential for managing her health, heavily relies on canned goods, which provide the nutritional consistency she needs.

However, the surge in fuel costs is reshaping consumer habits, particularly in how people purchase these essential grocery items. As household budgets are increasingly consumed by rising fuel and mortgage expenses, discretionary spending is reduced. This shift often leads to fewer dining-out experiences and a growing demand for basic food staples as individuals seek to manage their financial constraints.

Dr. Neal offers practical advice for families striving to navigate these economic pressures without overextending themselves at the grocery store. He suggests a thoughtful approach to shopping, encouraging individuals to assess their actual needs before making purchases. “Families can distinguish between being prepared and over-purchasing by contemplating whether they will truly require a particular item over the coming weeks or month,” he advises.

With more of the weekly budget absorbed by fuel and mortgage repayments, spending in other areas tends to fall, as fewer meals are eaten out and demand for basic food items rises.

Dr Neal said a simple check can help households avoid buying more than they need at the checkout.

“Families can distinguish between being prepared and over-purchasing by thinking before buying whether they will have a real need for the good over the coming few weeks or a month.”

“If not, then it’s probably better to put it back.”

Major grocers, including Woolworths, IGA and Aldi, say stock levels remain steady.

“We’re continuing to see consistent supply, and there’s no need to over-purchase or stockpile,” an IGA spokesperson said.

“By buying only what you need and being mindful of others, it helps ensure everyone in the community can access the essentials they rely on.”

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