South Africans are beginning to feel the pinch as the cost of meat rises sharply—an alarming sign of a deepening supply crisis that threatens to put basic protein out of reach for many households. What began as isolated industry disruptions has escalated into a national concern, impacting supermarket shelves and family budgets alike. From beef to polony, the affordability of everyday meat products is under threat, with experts warning that food insecurity could soon worsen if decisive action is not taken.