The expansion of the VAT-exempt basket of goods, to include sanitary pads, white bread and cake flour, is lauded but this basket has its limitations. Amongst multiple challenges, the poor have to contend with high consumer pricing. The expansion of unconditional social grants (cash transfers) has prevented millions of South Africans from becoming destitute but this monthly stipend cannot secure sufficient basic goods for poor households, as is indicated by latest research. Following this, poor households are unable to secure an adequate basket of nutritious, basic foods on a monthly basis, whilst necessities such as sanitary and hygiene products are sacrificed to meet essential household expenses.