AESAN warns of glass in EROSKI ricotta sauce
AESAN has warned of glass fragments in EROSKI Salsa Ricotta from Italy. The alert identifies lot LA310CRI01, with an expiry date of 06/11/2028, and advises consumers not to eat it.
Groceries 506 news
As Spanish cities change, Groceries covers supermarkets, food prices, shortages and consumer habits.
It connects national decisions with regional realities, helping readers understand what changes for residents, travelers, businesses and families.
It connects national decisions with regional realities, helping readers understand what changes for residents, travelers, businesses and families.
Spain’s Inflation Hits 4.9% as Food Costs Climb
Annual inflation reached 4.9% in September, while the OCU counted 29 spending categories with rises above 5%. Fresh berries led food price increases, up 47.4%.
Spain’s Inflation Reaches 4.9% as Egg Prices Jump
Spain’s annual inflation reached 4.9% in September. Eggs rose 12.3%, while supermarkets say energy and logistics bills have added more than €130 million in costs.
Remote attacks disrupt supermarkets in three countries
Remote tampering pushed refrigerator temperatures as high as 50°C in French supermarkets, spoiling stock at hundreds of stores. Belgium and the Netherlands faced separate retail disruptions, and investigators have not linked the incidents.
Mercadona shutters stores nationwide for Día de la Hispanidad
Mercadona will keep supermarkets closed across Spain on October 12 for Día de la Hispanidad and the Pilar holiday. The two-day closure, including Sunday, reflects the chain’s longstanding policy on holiday trading.
Spain's Supermarket Hours Split on 11 and 12 October
Spain's national holiday could change supermarket hours. Mercadona is generally expected to close, while selected convenience stores may open with reduced hours. Check each branch directly.
Dani keeps Spain’s cheapest supermarket crown in 2026
Dani leads Spain’s cheapest supermarkets again. Families could save €1,310 a year by choosing carefully, while Madrid has the widest gap between stores.
Canary Islands shoppers face a €2,167 supermarket gap
A supermarket choice in Las Palmas can change a household's annual bill by up to €2,167. OCU ranks Carrefour as the cheapest option in several Canary Islands cities, while grocery prices remain far above their level five years ago.
Spain's Growth Runs Into a Sharper Grocery Bill
Spain's economy grew by 0.7% in the second quarter and by 2.6% year on year. Household spending and investment drove the rise, while fresh food prices climbed much faster than the average basket.
Where Spain's Supermarket Bill Can Fall by €1,310
A household can save an average of €1,310 a year by choosing the cheapest supermarket nearby. Madrid has the widest gap, while fresh food prices continue to rise.
Donostia's supermarket gap reaches €1,676
The OCU found a €1,676 yearly difference between the cheapest and most expensive supermarket options in San Sebastián. Irun's average grocery bill is higher still, at €6,880.
Supermarkets drop extra virgin olive oil prices below 4.5 euros
Spain’s biggest supermarkets have cut extra virgin olive oil prices, with some now selling one-litre bottles for less than 4.5 euros. The move follows weeks of steady price drops and growing pressure from shoppers concerned about food costs.
Mercadona Loses Ground as Shoppers Seek Cheaper Alternatives
Mercadona's grip on Spain's supermarket sector is slipping as inflation and fuel prices climb. With government relief measures ending, more shoppers are turning to Dia and Lidl for lower prices.
Mercadona's market share stalls as inflation and fuel costs reshape Spanish supermarkets
Mercadona's market share has stopped growing as inflation and rising fuel prices push shoppers toward discount chains. With government subsidies set to expire, Spanish households face more uncertainty.
Spain recalls five barbecue and chimichurri sauces over hidden gluten risk
Spanish health officials have recalled five types of barbecue and chimichurri sauces sold under the Dumt’s and Vulpi brands after undeclared gluten was found in multiple batches. The alert now affects eight autonomous communities, and consumers with gluten intolerance are urged to check batch numbers before using these products.
Sardinillas Face Strict New Rules in Spain from 2026
From January 2026, Spanish canned-fish labels will be overhauled. The term 'sardinilla' will be reserved for sardines that meet specific size and origin standards, including limits on length and weight. Producers must adapt their packaging and terminology or risk losing the iconic name.
No 10-Cent Charge Yet: Spain Delays Deposit on Bottles and Cans
Spanish bars and supermarkets are not yet required to charge a 10-cent deposit on bottles or cans. The EU’s new packaging regulation takes effect in August 2026, but Spain’s deposit system will launch only after further national steps. Here’s what changes, and when.
Why Some People Put Toilet Paper in the Fridge
Placing a roll of toilet paper in the fridge is a trending tip for tackling humidity and odors, but scientific support is limited. Experts say cleaning and temperature control are far more effective for food safety and freshness.
Mercadona Launches 'Tienda 9' Supermarkets in Madrid and Bilbao
Mercadona has opened its first 'Tienda 9' supermarkets in Madrid and Bilbao. The company invested €11 million in these locations. The new model promises greater efficiency and a focus on fresh products.
Mercadona Holds Off on 10-Cent Deposit Scheme in Spain
Mercadona has confirmed it will not introduce the 10-cent deposit for beverage containers in Spain until further notice. Despite the new EU rules, the supermarket giant says no official start date or system details have been set for Spanish stores.
Japan’s Unmanned Farm Stalls Survive on Trust—And New Technology
Across Japan, small unmanned farm stalls known as mujin hanbai sell fresh fruit and vegetables without staff, relying on visible prices and honesty boxes. As thefts rise, some stalls are adding lockers and vending machines, pairing the trust-based model with practical safeguards.
EU Bans PFAS Chemicals in Food Packaging from August 12
From August 12, the EU enforces strict limits on PFAS in food packaging, changing requirements for manufacturers and importers. The regulation also sets the stage for harmonized labeling by 2028 and tighter design and recycling rules by 2030.
Why Weevils Invade Spanish Pantries Every Summer
Small beetles such as weevils can hide for weeks inside rice and cereals, contaminating food without being noticed. Rising summer temperatures in Spain create ideal conditions for these pests to thrive. Here’s how to spot, eliminate, and prevent infestations before they spread.
Why Empty Tofu Containers Are Becoming Kitchen Organizing Hacks
Empty tofu containers from Mercadona and other supermarkets are being repurposed as clever organizers for kitchen cabinets. Before using them for food or heating, check the label for safety. Here’s how to make the most of these everyday items.
Spain Overhauls Olive Labeling: New Rules Hit Supermarkets
From March 2026, Spanish supermarkets must update labels on table olives and vinegars. The new law requires clearer ingredient lists and presentation details, while older stock can be sold for up to a year. Shoppers will see both old and new labels during the transition.
Publix Reports Drop in Comparable Sales as Food Prices Rise
Publix saw modest sales growth in the second quarter as comparable-store sales fell. Rising food prices and economic pressures are changing how customers shop. Net earnings increased, while the company’s internal stock value dropped.
Police Trace Family After Ashes Found in Benidorm Supermarket Locker
A funeral urn containing ashes was discovered in a Benidorm supermarket locker. Police identified the family and returned it to them. A relative had left the urn there for safekeeping during home renovations.
Why Some Chickens Have Yellow Skin and Others White
A chicken’s skin color is shaped by its diet, not its quality or freshness. Yellow- and white-skinned chickens can be equally nutritious; the differences come down to feed and genetics, as well as how the bird was raised. Here’s what matters when choosing chicken at the market.
Processed Meat Intake Linked to Higher Digestive Cancer Risk in Spain
A major Spanish-led study links higher daily processed meat consumption to an increased risk of digestive cancers. Even modest increases in intake were associated with measurable risk changes, a reason for dietary caution.
Mercadona Launches Affordable Creatine Supplement for Fitness Enthusiasts
Mercadona has introduced a 200g creatine powder made by Ynsadiet, now available in select stores and online. Priced at €8, the supplement provides around 47 servings and is designed for adults engaged in high-intensity exercise. Its composition and price have sparked debate among consumers.
Mercadona Builds One of Andalusia’s Largest Supermarkets in Dos Hermanas
Mercadona is nearing completion of a new supermarket in Dos Hermanas, set to become the municipality’s second-largest retail space. The two-level building will feature covered parking and a spacious sales floor, reflecting the chain’s latest design standards.
Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Gains Fame After Tania Llasera Endorsement
A pistachio-filled chocolate from Dubai has become a sensation in Spain. Presenter Tania Llasera’s praise has fueled demand, and local bakeries and supermarkets are racing to offer similar treats.
The Natural Powder That Removes Stubborn Bathroom Limescale in One Go
Limescale and mineral stains can quickly build up in Spanish bathrooms, especially in areas with hard water. When used correctly, citric acid powder breaks down stubborn deposits and offers an alternative to vinegar or baking soda. Here’s how to use it safely and effectively.
Mercadona Stores in Coastal Valencia Open With Reduced Sunday Hours
Mercadona will open selected supermarkets this Sunday in coastal towns across Valencia, Alicante, and Castellón. Stores will operate only from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The measure targets high-traffic tourist areas during the summer season.
Alcampo Unveils Four-Wheeled Shopping Trolley for Easier Heavy Loads
Alcampo introduces the Muuvi Van, a four-wheeled shopping trolley designed to carry up to 25 kg with minimal effort. Its lightweight aluminum frame and spacious, washable bag are intended to make weekly grocery trips more manageable, especially for those seeking comfort and practicality.