The higher-than-expected jump to 3% from 2.5% in December, means prices rose at the fastest pace for 10 months.
Food staples such as meat, eggs, butter and cereals were all more expensive than a year ago and comes as many households prepare for higher energy and water bills later this year.
Following the latest figures, the government warned that the road back to low inflation would be “bumpy”, but the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats argued Labour’s tax rises and spending plans had caused the latest spike.
Rising food prices last month mean, on average, the cost of buying groceries is 3.3% more expensive than it was a year ago.
While many staples have edged up in price, some items such as olive oil and lamb have increased markedly, by 17% and 16% respectively.
The rise in inflation, which is a measure used to give a general picture of how living costs have changed over a year, comes ahead of predicted increases to energy bills in April.
Water and council tax bills are also slated to rise in two months’ time, which will push up the cost of living for households.
The government has raised the minimum wage for all age groups from April. Benefits and the state pension will also increase.
But some businesses have warned that higher pay, as well as a rise in National Insurance, will mean increased prices for customers as companies attempt to cover increased costs.