The cost of a school lunch rose by almost 20% in a month.
A study from Kantar has found that in the four weeks leading up to the 4th of September, back to school essentials saw prices increase by 19.5%.
The most basic food items had some of the biggest jumps with bread up 20%, ham up 12% and milk prices 26% higher.
Grocery price inflation hit 11% and is at its highest level since Kantar began tracking prices in May 2008.
The survey also found the average annual grocery bill could rise by an additional €768 this year.
