Shoprite food security index shows South Africa household hunger hits highest since 2010

Shoprite published the South African Food Security Index 2026, showing food security deteriorated in 2025 despite easing food inflation. Index score fell to 52.6 from 56.5 in 2024 as food inflation outpaced general inflation, reducing food availability. Household hunger hit the highest level since 2010, with 12% of households reporting hunger; 14.7% of individuals experienced hunger. Non-food costs intensified pressure, with housing and utilities contributing 39% of headline inflation by March 2026; food contributed 19%. Shoprite data showed shoppers shifting to smaller packs, cheaper products, weakening dietary diversity despite internal selling price inflation of 0.8%. Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Shoprite Holdings Ltd. published the original content used to generate this news brief on October 13, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein. (C)