Pantry innovation heats up as South Africans embrace bold, convenient cooking

South African consumers are reimagining their approach to home cooking, with flavour and convenience taking centre stage. WhyFive’s BrandMapp data reveals that 68% of South Africans keep dry stock as a pantry staple, a clear indication of the growing preference for shelf-stable, flavour-packed solutions that that offer value, versatility, and convenience in challenging economic times.

Responding to this evolving demand, DENNY®, one of South Africa’s most trusted food brands, has introduced a new range of dry cook-in sauces, pasta sauces, and stock powders. Designed for today’s busy households, the range combines robust flavour with practicality, offering long shelf life, simple preparation, and affordability without compromising on taste.

Affordable, flavourful, and easy to prepare

With retail pricing under R20 for dry cook-in and pasta sauces, and under R35 for stock powders in ready-to-use sachets, the new range provides accessible solutions for families seeking convenient, flavour-rich cooking options.

From creamy pasta sauces to hearty Trinchado, the dry formats are tailored to South African cooking habits, allowing home cooks to elevate vegetables, stretch proteins, and create comforting meals with minimal effort.

Each product is free from artificial colourants, packaged in recyclable materials, and requires only a few fresh ingredients and water to create satisfying, home-cooked dishes.

South Africans’ Appetite for Tasty Sauciness

Rich, saucy meals are at the heart of South African cooking. From curries and casseroles to braai marinades and hearty stews, sauces and condiments are central to how the nation cooks and connects. They bring flavour, comfort, and creativity to everyday meals, making South Africa, quite fittingly, a saucy nation.

“We’re seeing a clear shift in how South Africans approach everyday cooking,” says Lisa Croecamp, Head of Marketing and Innovation, Wet Condiments – Ambient Products, Libstar. “Consumers want to prepare wholesome, flavourful meals at home more often, but they also value convenience and affordability. This DENNY® range is designed to make that easier, delivering great flavour with minimal effort.”

Supported by a national digital and in-store awareness campaign, the launch highlights flavour, simplicity, and affordability as key purchase drivers in today’s market. Rolling out to all major retailers nationwide, DENNY’s dry sauce and stock ranges include seven bold flavour variants and six versatile stock options.

DENNY®, a proudly Libstar brand, is one of South Africa’s most trusted names in flavour innovation. Recognised for its extensive range of wet cook-in and pasta sauces, DENNY® continues to make home cooking more accessible, flavourful, and versatile. Guided by a legacy of innovation and a deep understanding of South African taste preferences, the brand continues to expand its offering- inspiring confidence and creativity in kitchens across the country.

Website / Instagram / Facebook