Braai inflation: The 29% surge in beef rump steak prices and its impact on households
Beef rump steak prices have climbed 29% since 2022, outpacing headline inflation and putting added pressure on festive braai budgets.
Image: Murray Swart/ Cape Argus
South Africa’s favourite pastime is feeling the heat.
While annual consumer inflation measured 3,6% in December 2025, the cost of key braai favourites has risen sharply — with beef rump steak leading the increase.
According to Statistics South Africa’s latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release, annual inflation ticked up to 3,6% in December, from 3,5% in November. But some braai staples have climbed at rates well above the current headline figure.
Beef rump steak recorded the steepest increase among the featured braai items over the past three years. The average price for a kilogram of rump steak was R166,01 during the festive season in 2022. By December 2025, the same cut cost an average of R214,45 — a 29% increase over the period.
From steak to pap, several braai staples have risen sharply since 2022 — with rump steak up 29% by December 2025, according to Stats SA data.
Image: Supplied
The broader meat category reflects similar pressure. Nationally, meat inflation measured 12,6% year-on-year in December 2025, significantly higher than the overall inflation rate.
Other braai essentials have also become more expensive over the three-year period. Maize meal, used to make pap, rose by 20%, while tomato sauce increased by 16% and pork chops by 13%.
There was some relief for consumers. A 330ml beer, onions and lettuce were cheaper in December 2025 compared with December 2022. Seasonal patterns influence fresh produce prices: onion prices typically dip early in the year and peak around June and July, while lettuce tends to be more expensive in the first half of the year.
Food and non-alcoholic beverages contributed 0,8 percentage points to the 3,6% annual inflation rate in December, underscoring the role of grocery prices in household budgets.
The inflation basket has also evolved. Boerewors, previously grouped with sausages, was reclassified into its own category in the January 2025 basket update. Garlic, butter and natural spices and herbs were added, while no braai-related items were removed.
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