South Africans are grappling with a significant rise in essential food prices, putting a strain on household budgets. According to the October 2023 Household Affordability Index, compiled by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group, the average cost of a household food basket increased by R141.81, or 2.8%, reaching R5,297.58 in October from R5,155.77 in September.

Among the major contributors to this increase were potatoes, which soared by 40%, and eggs, which rose by 19%. These price hikes can be attributed to quality issues and lower yields in some regions, coupled with increased input costs like electricity. The poultry sector also faced challenges due to the avian flu pandemic, resulting in higher egg prices.

Year-on-year, the average cost of the household food basket surged by R509.75, a 10.6% increase from R4,787.83 in October 2022 to R5,297.58 in October 2023. Several other food items experienced price hikes in October 2023, with rice, potatoes, eggs, and rice being the core drivers.

As South Africa grapples with rising food prices, it faces broader economic challenges. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September revealed a headline inflation of 5.4%, with CPI food inflation reaching 8.0%. The Producer Price Index for agriculture registered at 7.8%, keeping pace with the national inflation rate. The rising cost of basic nutrition puts pressure on the average South African family's budget at a time when the economy is chronically stagnant .

The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group determined that the cost of a basic nutritional food basket for a family of four in October 2023 was R3,655.70. However, considering electricity and transport costs, the organization found that workers would underspend on food by a minimum of 45.8%. This means many families are unable to afford nutritious meals, falling below the food poverty line.

Additionally, the cost of feeding a child a basic nutritious diet increased by 2.8% in the past month, and it has surged by 13% year-on-year. This poses a significant challenge, particularly considering that the Child Support Grant of R510 falls significantly below the food poverty line and the average cost of feeding a child a basic nutritious diet.

While South Africa faces food price increases, the poultry industry has been grappling with avian flu outbreaks. Despite early concerns about chicken shortages, swift actions by producers, such as extending the age of non-affected flocks and importing hatching eggs, have mitigated the impact of the outbreak on supply. The industry expects any shortages during the festive season to be minimal.

Although the avian flu outbreak caused significant disruptions, there have been no new cases reported in the Western Cape since the initial outbreak in George. Measures such as culling affected birds and strengthening biosecurity are being implemented to prevent further outbreaks. The situation remains complex, with the economic and health implications of these challenges affecting South African households.

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