“Can’t eat healthy”: SA shopper react to R100 grocery list that feeds family for a week

With the cost of living putting pressure on every household, a viral food hack is making waves by suggesting that dinner for a week can cost as little as R100. The post outlines a minimalist shopping list intended to feed a small family or an individual for seven days straight.

The budget breakdown includes three core items: a 500g bag of lentils for R28, a pocket of butternut for R40, and a 2kg bag of rice for R32. Together, these items hit the R100 mark exactly, providing the base for 21 total servings.

The Science of the Serving

The suggested method involves a plate composed of 50% rice, balanced with 25% lentils and 25% butternut. While the menu is repetitive, it aims to provide a filling meal that prioritizes survival and basic nutrition over variety.

Health data suggests this combination isn't just about saving cents; it offers significant fibre and vitamin A. Experts note that lentils are excellent for digestive health, while butternut can assist in managing cholesterol levels.

Meat and More

For those with a slightly larger budget, the plan suggests adding affordable proteins like chicken soup packs or pork, which can be found for roughly R55 to R60 per kilogram at major retailers like Shoprite or Pick n Pay.

However, the plan has sparked a heated debate among South African shoppers. While some appreciate the cost-saving tip, others argue that grocery prices vary wildly depending on the province and the specific supermarket, making the R100 target difficult to hit for everyone.

Reality Check

As the post continues to circulate, it highlights the creative lengths South Africans are going to in order to combat inflation. Whether this specific list is sustainable for a family long-term remains a point of contention among those feeling the pinch at the till.