Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 8: The average cost of home-cooked meals declined in June, with vegetarian thalis becoming 8% cheaper and non-vegetarian thalis falling by 6% year-on-year, according to a report released Tuesday by Crisil Intelligence.

The drop was primarily driven by a significant reduction in vegetable prices, particularly tomatoes. “Tomato prices saw a sharp on-year decline, which helped ease overall thali costs,” said Pushan Sharma, Director at Crisil Intelligence.

Tomatoes dropped 24% year-on-year to Rs 32 per kg in June, down from Rs 42 per kg last year—a result of the high base effect caused by poor yields in 2024.

However, Crisil warned that this relief may be temporary. Thali prices are expected to rise in the coming months due to seasonal factors.

“Onion prices may climb moderately as fresh stock is limited, and rabi stock is being released in a controlled manner. Tomato prices could also rise again due to weak summer sowing,” Sharma added.