Modest food price drop offers little relief

DESPITE a modest decline in food prices in December, millions of low-income households remain under severe financial strain, civil society groups have warned, saying the relief reflected in the latest Household Affordability Index does not translate into meaningful food security.

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD) said its December 2025 Household Affordability Index showed the average cost of a basic Household Food Basket fell both month-on-month and year-on-year, yet remained far beyond the reach of families dependent on low wages and social grants.

According to PMBEJD, the average cost of the Household Food Basket stood at R5 333,45 in December 2025, down R80.08, or 1.5%, from R5 413.53 in November. On an annual basis, the basket declined by R49.93, or 0.9%, from R5 383.38 in December 2024.

PMBEJD director Mervyn Abrahams yesterday said the price movements reflected mixed pressures within the basket. Foods that increased by 5% or more during the month included carrots, oranges and bananas, while fish, tomatoes and spinach also recorded notable increases.

However, several staples posted declines, with maize meal, samp, cooking oil, frozen chicken portions, beef liver, tinned pilchards and margarine among the items that became cheaper. Larger decreases were recorded for rice, potatoes, onions and butternut.