The cost of living crisis is affecting households around the world, and many South African families are feeling the pinch.

The latest Momentum-Unisa Consumer Financial Vulnerability Index confirms what we are feeling – consumers are more financially vulnerable, and food prices have shot through the roof.

According to the latest Household Affordability Index by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity group a basket of basic goods cost currently costs R4,688 in June 2022. This is R78.92 more than the month before.

Year on year, the basket is up R560.57 (+13.6%), from R4,128 in June 2021.

With the unexpected changes in food costs, it can be difficult to prepare healthy meals without going over the budget.

Momentum has released the following tips to make your next shopping experiences at the grocery store more enjoyable without the constant worry of spending more than your budget allows: 

• Prepare a grocery shopping list: Before going shopping, consumers should prepare a list and stick to it. Ensure that you limit the time in the store and only purchase the necessities;
• Shop around: Look around for the best prices on the items that you need to purchase, considering the weekly store leaflets and newspaper advertisements and visiting the stores’ websites or applications;
• Get to know the food prices: Write down the regular prices of foods you buy often. This will help you figure out which stores have the best prices and if you are getting a good deal on sale items;
• Check the “use by dates”: Consumers should check the dates that are on the food items to reduce early spoilage and wasted money. Buying frozen and canned food items last longer as compared to fresh produce. Consider buying frozen or items with a long shelf life in bulk;
• Plan: Planning meals for the week ahead as this will stop you from buying unnecessary things when at the store;
• Use a basket instead of a cart: Having less space will force you to limit your purchases to necessities;
• Compare the unit price for similar items: The unit price tells you how much something costs per “unit” or per 100 grams (g) or 100 millilitres (mL). This can help you compare whether a large or small size of an item is a smarter purchase and better value for your money;
• Check the season: If you are buying fresh produce, make sure that it’s in season since it generally costs less when compared to out-of-season. Better yet, plant your fruit and vegetables to save money on fresh produce;
• Bring a calculator or phone: Add up your grocery bill while you are shopping to help you stay within your budget;
• Use loyalty programmes: Consumers could qualify for discounts, but only buy items which your household will use and not just because it looks like a good deal, and;
• Use bank reward programmes: Understand how you could benefit from bank reward programmes by optimising your purchasing behaviour for day-to-day transactions.

Related: Good news for motorists: Hefty fuel price decreases expected for September