Chammanthi is no longer a poor man's dish: Soaring coconut prices shake Kerala kitchens

Kottayam: Making your favourite dishes like thoran, avial, or chammanthi is set to strain your kitchen budget as the prices of raw coconuts and coconut oil have surged dramatically in the open market. This price hike is primarily driven by a sharp decline in coconut production.

The price of raw coconuts has soared to an all-time high, reaching Rs 75 to Rs 80 per kilogram. Similarly, the price of coconut oil continues to rise steeply, with retail prices hitting Rs 242 per kilogram, while packaged coconut oil is now priced between Rs. 235 and Rs 300 per kilogram.

This price hike is attributed to a significant drop in local coconut production. Heavier coconuts, which weigh more, now require only two pieces to make up a kilogram. Estimates suggest a staggering 40% decline in production, with climate change identified as the primary culprit.

According to the Coconut Development Board, coconut production has dropped by more than 50% over the past decade. While the earlier decline was linked to farmers abandoning coconut cultivation, the recent drop is attributed largely to sudden and adverse climate changes. The supply of coconuts from other states has also decreased, further exacerbating the situation.

The demand for raw coconuts has spiked due to the annual pilgrimage season at Sabarimala, adding to the price escalation. Although some coconuts are being supplied from states like Tamil Nadu, buyers remain sceptical about their quality.