The consumer spending of households in Italy remained stable last year but one in three families cut their food budget, Istat said on Tuesday.

The national statistics agency said over 30% of households reported spending less on food by limiting the quantity or quality.

It said over 35% were doing the same with drinks.

Istat said the average Italian household spent 2,755 euros a month in 2024, largely steady on the figure of 2,738 euros for 2023.

It said the average monthly spending of families in the north-east of Italy was 834 euros higher than in southern regions.