The pain could be particularly felt in some of the poorest import-dependent nations, which have limited purchasing power and social safety nets as they grapple with the coronavirus pandemic.
The UN’s index is treading at its highest since September 2011.
Last month’s gain of 4.8% has become the biggest increase in more than 10 years.
All five components of the index rose during the month, with the advance led by pricier vegetable oils, grain, and sugar.