Campo Grande Supermarkets Show Up to 300% Price Variation on Basic Food Basket Items

A recent survey by Procon Mato Grosso do Sul has revealed significant price disparities for essential grocery items across 13 supermarkets in Campo Grande. The study, conducted between July 1st and 3rd, examined 115 products and found price variations reaching as high as 300%. Produce, hygiene, and cleaning supplies exhibited the most substantial price differences. Specifically, national onions, curly lettuce, and salad tomatoes showed the largest fluctuations, with average prices of R$6.16/kg, R$4.42/unit, and R$8.44/kg, respectively. In the hygiene and cleaning category, a Sorriso brand toothpaste varied by 210.7%, and a five-unit bar soap pack by 132.89%.

Among food items, significant price swings were noted for 2kg crystal sugar (137.2%), 500g spaghetti with eggs (134.12%), and 5kg type 1 rice (106.83%). Comparing current prices to April, Procon observed increases in staples like beans (41.38% average rise) and rice (13.31% increase). Other items like spaghetti (66.11%), type 1 long-grain rice (45.4%), and English potatoes (38.52%) also saw price hikes. Conversely, some products became cheaper, including 500g fusilli pasta with eggs (-44.49%), 1-liter bleach (-32.37%), and 1kg refined salt (-31.09%). Procon advises consumers to compare prices across different stores, including neighborhood markets, to mitigate inflation's impact on their budgets.