Kerala’s cherished dishes, such as thoran, avial, and chammanthi, are no longer easy on the wallet as skyrocketing coconut prices wreak havoc on household budgets. A significant rise in the cost of raw coconuts and coconut oil is attributed to a steep decline in production, a crisis further aggravated by climate change.
Raw coconut prices have surged to an unprecedented Rs 75 to Rs 80 per kilogram, while retail coconut oil prices have soared to Rs 242 per kilogram. Packaged coconut oil now ranges from Rs 235 to Rs 300 per kilogram. This sharp increase reflects a drop in production, with larger coconuts weighing more, requiring just two to reach a kilogram. Production estimates reveal a staggering 40% decline, with the Coconut Development Board reporting over a 50% drop in the past decade.
Initially, this decline was linked to farmers abandoning coconut cultivation, but recent reductions are primarily due to erratic and extreme weather patterns. Compounding the crisis, supply from other states like Tamil Nadu has diminished, leaving buyers doubtful about quality.
The Sabarimala pilgrimage season has also intensified the demand, further driving up prices. As coconut remains an indispensable ingredient in Kerala’s cuisine, families are now facing an uphill battle to sustain traditional cooking without overspending.
