Italians spent 12% less on food in 2013 than in 2007

(ANSA) - Rome, April 7 - The average Italian spent 12% less on food in 2013 than they did before the economic downturn began in 2007, new data from the Italian Farmers' Confederation (CIA) showed Monday.
    Total food spending dropped from 129 billion euros in 2007 to 114 billion euros in 2013, the data showed. Currently, one in two Italians buys only essential food products, with supermarkets sales dropping by 1.3% and hypermarket sales down by 1.9% overall.
    Discount store sales increased by 1.6% as some 6.5 million families said they shop regularly in discount stores.
    While just 23% still choose more expensive brand products, 85% of supermarket shoppers said they have cut out all the extras and 42% said they regularly look for convenience or family formats. In addition, 59% said they have given up eating in restaurants, while 21% have gone back to DIY methods in the kitchen rather than opting for store-bought cakes, bread, and hand-made pasta.