More pressure as rising food prices choke South African households

IN A STARK reflection of the economic pressure faced by South African families, the latest Household Affordability Index for May 2025 revealed an increase in the cost of basic groceries across the country.

- ASHLEY LECHMAN

The report highlighted the ongoing escalation of food prices as well as the widening gap between wages and the rising cost of living, particularly for the poorest households.

Compiled monthly by the Pieter-maritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD), the food index showed that in May 2025, the average cost of a household food basket was R5 466,59.

This was a month-on-month increase of 0.9% (R46.29) and a yearly increase of 2.6% (R136.29).

Price movements signal ongoing struggles

Of the 44 foods examined, 33 items saw price hikes in May 2025, with several staples experiencing increases of 5% or more. Potatoes, onions, and chicken feet exemplify the troubling trend; the cost of onions alone soared by an alarming 23%. Other notable increases included:

Carrots - 8%

Spinach - 5%

Peanut butter - 5%

Conversely, some relief was noted as 11 food items recorded price drops. Rice, tomatoes, and oranges saw significant reductions, with oranges falling by as much as 23%, although these decreases are overshadowed by the overall trend of rising costs.