For a number of reasons food prices are on the rise and it is a problem that will get far worse before it gets better in light of the drought in our farmlands. Nutrition economics is certainly worth practicing.
Eating healthily will become more costly , making it viable to shop now and save later. Each time you go shopping, buy an extra non-perishable item or two.
This is a list of non-perishable nutrient-dense pantry staples that are worth stocking up on:
Legumes & Soya (high in protein and fibre)
- Lentils (dried or canned)
- Split red lentils (quick cooking and great for thicken stews and soups)
- Canned beans and chickpeas
- Soya mince (extend mince meat)
Fish (high in protein)
- Canned tuna, salmon or pilchards
Starches (source of energy and fibre)
- Rice
- Wholewheat pasta
- Canned sweetcorn
- Popcorn
- Oats
Dairy (high in protein and calcium)
- Long life milk
- Fat free milk powder
Other
- Oil
- Peanut butter
There is more we can do to prepare for and survive the food crisis.
Reduce Wastage:
- Freeze unused herbs in ice cube trays with water or olive oil for cooking
- Make and freeze soup, using odd vegetables
- Freeze excess fruit in cubes before it rots and blend it with plain yogurt
Grow Vegetables:
- Plant vegetables and herbs, watering them with bath or shower water
- Use vegetable peels to make compost
Save Now:
- Shop around, taking advantage of current specials. Saving on your grocery bill now will help when food prices soar later.
- Buy bulk when you see your favourite non-perishables on special
- Collect all R5 coins, received as change in a jar. This adds up quickly and it will make for a good bread and milk fund.
- Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables in bulk and share the reduced cost with a neighbour or a friend
- Limit shopping outings to avoid unplanned spending
- Avoid imported products
Be mindful and creative in all food related activities to ensure the maintenance of healthy eating in the event that food access becomes an unwelcome challenge.
Canned Food Recipes:
