Bakers cross at rising cost of ingredients

The cost of a favourite Easter treat is expected to rise next year as many independent bakers warn they cannot continue to absorb the cost of ingredients used in hot cross buns.

Lower wheat production globally has been blamed for a dramatic increase in the price of flour since September last year, but the cost of other essential components such as fruit and butter have also risen.

The price is also expected to be affected by a rise in packaging costs.

Drew Massey, the owner of the Manna House bakery on Easter Road, said the increase in these ingredients led to his decision to only offer the spicy buns for one week this Easter instead of two.

"I've absorbed the costs (of the price increases] this year but I've had to cut down production," he said. "I can't compete with supermarkets, they've killed us by starting to produce (the buns] in January, people become bored with it."

Mr Massey said he sells hot cross buns individually for 50p each, but will have to look at increasing the price next year.