Despite being exempt from VAT, the prices of some zero-rated foods increased by 4.1% over the past 12 months. The latest Household Affordability Index, compiled by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group (PMBEJD), found zero-rated foods in the household food basket increased by R113.66 (4.1%) from R2,775.45 to R2,889.11 in the year to June. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi is in conversation with Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity (PMBEJD) Coordinator, Mervyn Abrahams.