Price Surge Makes Dry Fruits Unreachable to Many

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Islamabad: Dry fruits, a beloved winter treat, have become an extravagant purchase for many due to soaring prices amidst a widespread inflationary trend.

The escalating cost of essential goods, including vegetables, fruits, and wheat flour, is disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income individuals, making the purchase of dry fruits a lower priority.

Despite their nutritional value and immunity-boosting properties, which are crucial during the cold season, the financial strain caused by the price hikes is compelling many to forego the purchase of these beneficial dry fruits.

Sajid Khan, a dry fruit vendor at Karachi Company, expressed concerns over the escalating prices of dry fruits, citing them as his sole source of income. He highlighted the necessity of earning maximum profit to sustain his household expenses and provide for his children.

Khan mentioned adopting a strategy of offering discounts, once limited to clothing and daily essentials, to attract buyers amidst the soaring prices.

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His prices for various dry fruits were outlined: almonds at Rs 2800 per kg, walnuts at Rs 2200, pistachios for Rs 3600, apricots at Rs 1200, dried apricots for Rs 1600, dried figs for Rs 3200, raisins for Rs 1700, dates for Rs 1200, Afghani Rewari for Rs 1200, and cashews for Rs 3600. Pine nuts, due to their steep cost of approximately Rs 14,000, remained unsought by most customers, forcing Khan to omit them from his stock.

Zahida Amin, a customer at Apbara Market, lamented the inability to afford her usual purchase of almonds and walnuts due to the exorbitant rates, despite their health benefits.

Asim Azhar, a government employee, expressed concern that dry fruits might become a luxury only affordable to a specific segment of society, leaving many unable to purchase them, except for more affordable options like peanuts.

Saleem Khan, another customer, emphasized the nutritional value of various dry fruits, particularly highlighting their significance for growing children. He noted that despite being locally produced, many dry fruits remained out of reach for the common man.

Health experts highlighted the nutritional benefits of dry fruits as an alternative to oily snacks, providing essential nutrients, vitamins, and warmth during the winter season. They also noted the energy-boosting properties of dry fruits and their inclusion in various beauty products for their skin benefits.