Egg and Milk Prices in London: A Comprehensive Guide

When considering a move to London or simply looking to understand current shopping costs, it's important to know the typical prices for basic essentials like eggs and milk. Although the prices can vary depending on factors such as location, store, and product type, this guide provides an overview based on the latest information available up to [insert last knowledge update date].

Current Egg and Milk Prices in London

As of my last knowledge update in August 2023, the price for a dozen eggs in London was typically around ￡3 to ￡4. A gallon of whole milk was usually priced between ￡2 and ￡3. However, it's important to note that these prices may vary based on the store and location. The best way to get the most current prices is to check local grocery stores or online grocery delivery services.

Type of Eggs

In London, various types of eggs are available:

Goose Eggs: Goose eggs are starting to become more available during the season. Duck Eggs: These are freely available in most supermarkets. Quail Eggs: Quails eggs, while more specialized, are also available in many stores. Ordinary Chicken Eggs: These come in several categories based on size and production method, such as organic, free-range, barn, and caged.

Types of Milk

Milk is another variable when shopping in London:

Cow's Milk: The most common type of milk, available in organic and non-organic varieties. Goat's Milk: An option for those who prefer or have lactose intolerances. Sheep's Milk: Highly specialized and not as common as cow or goat milk.

Why Gallons Aren't Common in London

In London, gallons are not commonly used for milk because:

Differences in Volume: 1 British gallon is 160 fluid ounces or about 4.5 liters, while the American gallon is 128 fluid ounces or 3.8 liters. Storage and Freshness: British milk has less preservatives and hormones, leading to a shorter shelf life. Even a U.S. gallon of milk might not last long enough for even a large family.

Online Shopping for Prices

For the most up-to-date information, consider using online delivery services from major supermarkets like:

Sainsbury's: A popular option in London, offering various sizes and types of eggs and milk. Tesco: Another major player in the British grocery industry, with competitive prices. Ocado: An online-only grocery store with delivery services for both eggs and milk.

Example Prices from Ocado

As of April 26, 2019, the following prices were noted at Ocado:

A dozen large own-brand free-range eggs, which are almost all standard in the UK (brown shells), cost ￡1.89. The largest container of own-brand whole milk (blue cap, 4 pints / 2.72 liters), costs ￡1.15. To get a US gallon of milk, you would need three 2-pint bottles (2.72 liters each) which are currently on offer at ￡1.60 (3 for the price of 2).

These prices provide a good benchmark for understanding the cost of groceries in London. If you're looking for specialty eggs (e.g., golden-yolked or organic), these will cost a bit more. Similarly, organic milk may also be a bit pricier.

Additional Tips

If you're looking for cheaper eggs, you may opt for non-free-range varieties, but the majority of UK consumers would prefer organic or free-range eggs, making them less common in stores.

TL;DR

Typically, a dozen free-range large eggs cost around ￡1.89, while a US gallon of whole milk can be achieved with the cost of three 2-pint bottles (3 for the price of 2) at ￡1.60.