For lower-income South Africans, the “National Poverty Lines (2024)” provides critical insights into the financial thresholds that define poverty levels. The Food Poverty Line (FPL), set at R796 per person per month, is the minimum amount required for an individual to afford the daily caloric intake of 2,100 calories.
This line focuses on the cost of a basic food basket that ensures survival but does not account for other needs. The food basket containing staple foods that are commonly consumed by lower-income households.
The suggested daily food combination table below outlines a cost-effective and nutritionally balanced meal plan for achieving the 2,100-calorie goal.