Almost half of adults admit shoplifting from supermarkets – but there’s an item in particular people keep stealing

ALMOST half of adults admit shoplifting from supermarkets, a shock survey claims.

And many pinch goods when using self-checkouts.

The most common stolen item is the 10p reusable bag — which six out of ten admit not paying for.

Some 45 per cent nick baked goods such as pasties, pastries and bread rolls.

And 40 per cent admit to stealing fruit, either eating it in the store or not entering it at the self-checkout.

A huge 1,075 of 2,500 people polled — 43 per cent — owned up to stealing from the stores.

The top excuse was the cost of living crisis and other financial pressures.

Some said they were motivated by the ease with which certain items can be stolen without detection.

And a significant minority claimed they steal as a protest against what they see as unfair practices by large ­corporations.

The study, carried out by ­marketing website fatjoe, said: “These findings call for a revaluation of how super­markets address theft.

“The data suggests current deterrents may not be effective for a large portion of the population — pointing to the need for innovative solutions that address prevention and the underlying causes of theft.

“Motivations behind stealing, highlight the importance of addressing broader socio­economic issues such as poverty and inequality which may indirectly contribute to the prevalence of theft.”

Boss Joe Davies said: “This survey sheds light on the significant issue of supermarket theft in Britain — revealing not only the scale but nuances behind why people choose to steal.

“The results serve as a call to action to adopt more ­holistic and compassionate approaches to prevent theft — ultimately aiming for a solution that benefits consumers and the retail industry.”

Shoplifting in England and Wales topped 402,482 last year — its highest level for two decades, stats showed.