Olympic caterers slammed over food and drink pricing
Caterers operating at Olympic venues have come under fire after their food and drink prices were revealed by the London 2012 organising committee.
Heineken beer, the only lager that can be served at the Games under the Dutch brewer's exclusive sponsorship deal, will cost £4.20 for a 330ml bottle. This works out at £7.23 a pint. According to the British Beer and Pub Association, that makes it more than double the national average for a pint (£3.17).
Coca-Cola, another major sponsor, will cost £2.30 for a 500ml bottle, while the brand's bottled water - the only one available at the Games - will cost £1.80. A serving of pie and mash or cod and chips will be £8.00 and lamb curry will sell for £8.50.
But Paul Deighton, chief executive of the Games, denied that the prices are excessive.
"We believe our prices are more than comparable to those found at other major sporting events which, because of their temporary nature, are often more expensive than the high street," he said.
The committee said that a family of four should be able to buy food and drinks for under £40 and pointed out that spectators will be allowed to bring their own food as long as it can fit in a backpack that will go under their seats.
Around 14 million meals are expected to be sold through 833 food outlets across 40 locations during the Games, with up to 150 dishes on offer.
By Janie Manzoori-Stamford
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