Even though tomatoes are a permanent part of cooking in India, their price has shot up by 445% to more than petrol, shocking citizens and forcing them to reduce consumption of the staple food.
A kilogram of tomatoes was selling for Rs 120 ($1.45) per kg in New Delhi on Thursday, a staggering difference from Rs 22 to Rs 98 in early 2023, according to data compiled by the food ministry.
At the same time, petrol was sold at around Rs 96 per liter in the capital.
The Indian government has attributed the sharp jump in prices to a short production season. While tomatoes become costlier during June and July every year, this year the impact has been staggering, increasing five-fold as monsoon rains disrupted transport and distribution.
However, over the past several months, consumers in India have also faced increased prices of other staple food items, including milk and spices.
Furthermore, due to the exorbitant rates, many outlets of the fast food franchise McDonald’s have removed tomatoes from their menu items.
The notice at two McDonald’s stores in the capital New Delhi read: “Despite our best efforts, we are unable to get enough tomatoes to pass our rigorous quality checks.
“We are forced to serve you products without tomatoes.”
However, store managers said the decision came after quality issues in the supply chain, not because of pricing.
In a country where price rise can cause political parties to lose elections, the high cost of basic goods can hinder efforts to pursue economic growth.
social media reacts
After the price hike, many Indians have expressed their anger through hilarious posts on social media.
1. Google Search
A social media user shared that his Google search has changed after the price hike of tomatoes.
2. ‘Social Media Meme Fest’
