Vegetarian thali cost rises 5% in June, non-veg thali up 6%: Crisil report

Vegetarian Thali Cost Rises 5% in June, Non-Veg Thali Prices Climb 6%: Crisil Report Reveals Key Drivers

Theindiapostdaily.com – The average cost of a vegetarian thali increased by 5% in June 2026, while non-vegetarian thalis saw a 6% rise, according to the latest findings from Crisil Intelligence’s Roti Rice Report (RRR). This upward trend in food prices reflects the broader impact of fluctuating input costs, including staple ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and cooking oils, as well as energy expenses tied to LPG cylinders. The report underscores how these changes are affecting household budgets and dining habits across India, with the vegetarian thali cost rises now becoming a critical point of discussion in both urban and rural markets.

Ingredient Price Volatility Drives Thali Cost Increases

Tomatoes, a cornerstone of vegetarian thali recipes, saw a dramatic 31% year-on-year price surge in June, reaching ₹42 per kg. This spike was attributed to reduced summer crop planting due to unseasonal heatwaves in February and March, which disrupted traditional growing cycles. While the vegetarian thali cost rises were partly fueled by this tomato price hike, the RRR also highlights how onion and potato costs have shifted. Onion prices edged up by 2% as higher-priced rabi stocks flooded the market, and potatoes, though declining by 14%, still contributed to overall price pressures.

“The vegetarian thali cost rises are being driven by a combination of factors, including delayed summer crop production and rising input costs like vegetable oils and LPG cylinders,” noted Pushan Sharma, director of Crisil Intelligence. “These trends are creating a ripple effect on everyday expenses for Indian households.”

Vegetable oil prices also rose by 10%, adding to the financial strain on families. The ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia have disrupted global supply chains, leading to higher oil prices and, consequently, more expensive thalis. Meanwhile, LPG cylinder costs climbed 10%, further increasing the cost of cooking meals at home. These combined pressures have made vegetarian thali cost rises a significant concern for consumers, particularly in lower-income brackets.

Monthly Trends and Regional Impacts

On a monthly basis, the vegetarian thali cost rises were more pronounced, with a 17% increase in tomato prices alone during June 2026. This surge, coupled with a 5% jump in potato costs and an 8% rise in onion prices, contributed to the overall 4% increase in vegetarian thali costs. For non-veg thalis, the monthly rise was slightly lower, at 3%, but still influenced by a 2% increase in broiler prices, driven by supply constraints from extreme summer heat.

The RRR also emphasizes that regional disparities play a role in these price changes. States like Maharashtra and Karnataka, key producers of pulses and vegetables, have seen yield losses, affecting the vegetarian thali cost rises. In contrast, areas with stable agricultural output have managed to cushion some of the inflationary pressures. This regional variation highlights the complexity of the food price landscape in India and the need for localized solutions to mitigate the vegetarian thali cost rises.

Looking Ahead: Persistent Challenges and Potential Solutions

Sharma warned that the vegetarian thali cost rises could persist through July and August, as tomato prices remain elevated due to delayed planting and lean supplies. The report projects that pulses, such as urad and moong, may continue to see stable prices, given low opening stocks and adverse weather conditions in major growing regions. Additionally, a prolonged rainfall deficit could reduce kharif onion and tomato production, prolonging the current price pressures.

“If the monsoon remains erratic, the vegetarian thali cost rises could extend into the next season, impacting both consumers and food businesses,” Sharma explained. “However, improved supply chain efficiency and the arrival of rabi stocks may help stabilize prices by September.”

Despite these challenges, the RRR also suggests that government interventions, such as subsidies for cooking gas and edible oils, could ease the burden of vegetarian thali cost rises. Consumers are advised to monitor ingredient prices and consider cost-effective alternatives, like seasonal vegetables or locally sourced produce, to manage their budgets. As the food inflation continues to shape everyday life, the vegetarian thali cost rises serve as a microcosm of the broader economic shifts affecting Indian households.