A portion of cod and chips now costs £11.41 on average across the UK, according to industry body Seafish — more than £5 higher than just seven years ago, when the Office for National Statistics recorded the price at around £6.48. Haddock and chips has reached £10.29.
The soaring costs come as shop owners battle rising prices for fish, potatoes, oil and energy, exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, conflict in Iran, and a reduction in the Barents Sea quota — a legally set limit on cod catches jointly determined by Norway and Russia. Some outlets have already begun to adapt: Joseph's Fish and Chips, an independent takeaway in Bermondsey, reported that cod prices had risen by 300% in 16 months, prompting it to serve the fish only on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Just last month, other chippies warned that cod could disappear from menus altogether if costs keep rising.
“Cod and chips now averages £11.41, up from £6.48 seven years ago, as soaring costs hit chippies.”
Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, said: “The findings also highlight the resilience and adaptability of fish and chip businesses. While the sector faces challenges, businesses continue to evolve in response to changing consumer preferences and operating conditions while maintaining a food tradition that remains an important part of British culture.”