Rising Food Costs!? 5 Ultimate Money-Saving Tips for the Era of Yen Depreciation and Inflation

【Introduction】

The wave of yen depreciation and rising raw material costs is hitting the dining table directly, spreading anxiety about "rising prices." So, how will food prices move in the future? Based on the latest data and expert comments, we have summarized the background, outlook, and specific measures to protect household finances.

【What is happening now?】

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications CPI, the "food" index for 2024 is 117.8, up 4.3% year-on-year. Fresh food, in particular, stands out with a 7.0% increase year-on-year. 

Although the government selling price of imported wheat was reduced by 4.6% for the April 2025 term, the yen's depreciation in the 140 yen range is pushing up raw material costs, leading to continued "re-price increases" for bread and noodles. 

【Future Outlook】

◆ Prolonged Yen Depreciation: Private surveys predict the yen will remain in the low 140 yen range per dollar by the end of 2025. 

◆ Rising Labor Costs: The minimum wage for fiscal 2025 is expected to average around 1,100 yen nationwide, further increasing costs for dining out and processing. 

◆ Easing Import Costs: The international market for wheat and edible oil is stabilizing, slowing the pace of price increases.

◆ Resurgence of Price Hikes: Teikoku Databank estimates that food price hikes in 2025 will reach a scale of 20,000 items annually. 

→ Many economists suggest "a slight increase in the first half of 2025, followed by a plateau to a slight decrease in the latter half."

【Five Rules for Protecting Household Finances】

①《Bulk Buying on Sale Days》— Utilize freezing techniques to prevent loss and save on electricity bills.

②《Shift to Domestic Seasonal Vegetables》— Less affected by exchange rates and nutritionally excellent. Utilize JA direct sales outlets.

③《Private Brand Products with Delayed Price Increases》— Reduce fixed costs with private brands from supermarkets and drugstores.

④《Food Sharing & Discount Apps》— Use "TABETE" and "No Food Loss" to get discounted items nearing their expiration date.

⑤《Batch Cooking & Meal Prep》— Cook rice in bulk and use plastic bag cooking to cut gas costs.

【Conclusion】

Food prices will not decrease in the short term, but the rate of increase is likely to slow down and transition to a "high plateau." By keeping track of the numbers and updating purchasing and storage methods, let's wisely navigate the wave of rising prices!