Braaiing on Heritage Day? Beef prices up 30% since 2024

CapeTalk and 702's Africa Melane speaks to Dehan Scherman of Financial Wealth Holdings.

Listen below: 

For many South Africans, Heritage Day = braai day... but will it be the same as prices of braai staples increase?

Recent outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in South Africa have affected livestock, impacting the red meat industry, which means the price of tjoppies and steaks for the braai has surged.

This might impact changes in food choices for braais and influence overall leisure spending.

The current cost of living shifts the focus from lavish celebrations to more affordable activities, forcing households to restructure their finances and prioritise essential needs over traditional festivities, such as Heritage Day, says Scherman.

For example, beef prices have increased by 30% since last year, which means families who enjoy braaiing on Heritage Day will be paying more for tjoppies and steak.

Alternatively, more expensive cuts of beef might be swapped for chicken, smaller beef cuts or vegetarian options, he says.

"The inflationary pressures are going to be in place for much longer than traditional disease-affected animals... it might not only affect your braai this year but another three to four years from now."

- Dehan Scherman, Financial Wealth Holdings

"On other fronts, we're seeing a bit more of a relief; it's primarily just beef that's really shooting up, but everything else is dipping, which gives South Africans a bit more variety." 

- Dehan Scherman, Financial Wealth Holdings

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