Vegetarian Thali Prices Drop Amid Rising Non-Vegetarian Costs
In a recent report by CRISIL, the cost of a home-cooked vegetarian thali has seen a year-on-year decline of 1% in February, offering some relief to households. Conversely, the price of a non-vegetarian thali has surged by approximately 6%, primarily due to rising broiler chicken prices. This monthly analysis highlights the fluctuating costs of essential food items, impacting everyday expenses for families across India.
Decline in Vegetarian Thali Costs
The CRISIL report indicates that the average cost of preparing a vegetarian thali at home has decreased, largely attributed to lower prices for key ingredients. Notably, the price of tomatoes has dropped significantly from Rs 32 per kg to Rs 23 per kg, marking a 28% decrease year-on-year. This reduction is due to a 20% increase in supply, which has positively affected market prices. Additionally, the cost of LPG cylinders has also seen a decline of 11%, falling to Rs 803 for a 14.2 kg cylinder in Delhi from Rs 903 the previous year.
Despite these reductions, the overall savings for vegetarian thali preparation could have been greater if not for the rising costs of onions, potatoes, and vegetable oils, which increased by 11%, 16%, and 18% respectively. The monthly analysis underscores the importance of tracking these price movements, as they directly influence household budgets and meal planning.
Rising Costs for Non-Vegetarian Thalis
In contrast, the cost of a non-vegetarian thali has risen significantly, primarily driven by a 15% year-on-year increase in broiler chicken prices. Chicken constitutes about 50% of the total cost of a non-vegetarian thali, and the recent price surge is attributed to a low baseline from the previous year when prices fell due to oversupply. Furthermore, increased feed costs, particularly a 6% rise in maize prices, have contributed to the overall increase in non-vegetarian meal expenses.
The report highlights that while both vegetarian and non-vegetarian thali costs decreased by 5% compared to the previous month, the underlying factors affecting these prices differ significantly. The decline in non-vegetarian costs was also influenced by reduced demand following bird flu concerns in southern India, which led to a month-on-month decrease in broiler prices.
Monthly Variations and Household Impact
The CRISIL analysis provides valuable insights into the monthly variations in food prices, which are crucial for understanding household expenses. The report tracks the costs of essential ingredients, including cereals, pulses, vegetables, spices, and cooking gas, reflecting the dynamic nature of food pricing in India.
In February, the overall reduction in thali costs can be attributed to fresh supplies that have led to price drops in key vegetables such as onions (7%), potatoes (17%), and tomatoes (25%). These fluctuations not only affect meal preparation costs but also highlight the challenges faced by consumers in managing their food budgets amidst changing market conditions.
As families navigate these price changes, the CRISIL report serves as a timely reminder of the importance of monitoring food costs and making informed decisions about meal planning and grocery shopping.
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