With Onam just around the corner, vegetable markets across Kerala are becoming increasingly busy. Families are visiting markets to buy fresh vegetables and other ingredients needed to prepare the traditional Onam feast, known as Onam Sadya.
The Sadya is an important part of Onam celebrations and is usually served on a banana leaf. The traditional meal can include up to 28 different dishes, including rice, curries, vegetables, pickles, side dishes and sweets. Vegetables are an important part of many of these dishes.
However, this year’s preparations are facing some challenges. Vegetable prices have increased sharply in several markets, putting extra pressure on household budgets. Many families are finding it difficult to buy all the ingredients they normally use for the festive meal.
As Onam approaches, demand for vegetables has increased because thousands of households, restaurants and community groups are preparing large quantities of food. The rise in demand has added to concerns about prices and availability.
Families are now looking for cheaper options and comparing prices between different markets. Some households may also reduce the quantity of certain vegetables or choose less expensive alternatives to control their spending.
Along with rising prices, concerns about pesticide residues in vegetables have also created worry among consumers. Reports of pesticide residues in some produce have raised questions about food safety, particularly during a festival when large quantities of vegetables are purchased and consumed.
Consumers are therefore paying more attention to the quality and source of vegetables. Many shoppers are looking for locally grown produce and washing vegetables carefully before cooking them.
Vegetable traders, meanwhile, are expecting strong sales as the festival gets closer. Markets are likely to remain crowded as families make their final purchases for the Sadya.
For many people in Kerala, Onam is a time for family gatherings, traditional food and celebrations. Despite the rise in vegetable prices and concerns over food safety, families are continuing their preparations to enjoy the festival.
The situation has also highlighted the need for better monitoring of vegetable prices and regular checks for pesticide residues. Ensuring that safe and affordable vegetables are available during the festival season will be important for both consumers and traders.
With only a few days left for Onam, families across Kerala are making their final preparations, hoping to celebrate the festival with a traditional Sadya while keeping an eye on both their budgets and the quality of the food they buy.