Food basket drops slightly in February but nutrition gap widens

The average cost of a household food basket declined slightly in February, but families remain under severe pressure as wages and social grants fall short of covering basic nutrition. According to the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group (PMBEJD), the average Household Food Basket cost R5 383,81 in February, a month-on-month decrease of R17,63 (-0,3%). According to the organisation, food baskets in Pietermaritzburg, Durban, Cape Town, Mtubatuba and Mthatha had decreased in price.

Price movements in February were mixed. Of the 44 foods tracked, 19 increased, 24 decreased and one remained unchanged. Notable increases included onions (9%), cabbage (7%) and carrots (5%), while butternut (-12%), soup (-8%) and tomatoes (-6%) declined.

PMBEJD said food affordability cannot be separated from income levels and rising household expenses. “Families on low incomes do not pay for food first,” the group said. This is because incomes are too low when it first comes into our pockets.