Food inflation in Iran surged sharply in September, straining millions of households and threatening children’s education. According to Iran’s Statistical Center (ISC), the cost of basic food items rose nearly two-thirds compared to last year. Grains, bread, and fruits saw price increases approaching 100 percent, leaving low-income families struggling to afford essential nutrition.
Experts attribute this surge in food inflation to severe droughts, water shortages, and the government’s failure to secure adequate foreign currency for imports. Agricultural production also declined, with the Parliament Research Center estimating a 7 percent reduction in output during the summer of 2025. Long-standing economic mismanagement and corruption have further intensified the crisis.
The rising food inflation has already affected household diets. Data from recent surveys show per capita meat consumption has dropped by 40 percent over the past decade, while dairy consumption fell by 30 percent. A field study across 14 provinces found only 2 percent of children consume dairy daily, and 27 percent of households do not consume protein products at all.
Education costs added another burden to struggling families. The ISC reported that schooling expenses increased by 23 percent in September, just as the academic year began. Last year, two million students reportedly did not enroll due to economic hardship. Although public education is free in principle, families often face mandatory contributions labeled as maintenance fees or donations.
Political developments have worsened Iran’s economic instability. United Nations sanctions, reinstated at the request of European nations, aim to pressure Iran over nuclear transparency issues. The International Atomic Energy Agency has repeatedly criticized Tehran for not cooperating fully with inspections.
Analysts warn that inflation may rise further, especially if the government implements delayed fuel price increases. President Masoud Pezeshkian has indicated the government hesitates to act quickly due to fears of public unrest. Economists suggest urgent measures are needed to stabilize prices and protect the most vulnerable families.
Food inflation has broad social consequences beyond rising prices. Nutrition deficiencies, shrinking household budgets, and education disruptions risk creating long-term human capital challenges. Unless Iran addresses these economic pressures, millions of families could face worsening hardships in the months ahead.