Druti Banerjee, Pune
Burger King dropped tomatoes from their wraps and burgers in numerous Indian branches after tomato prices exceeded twofold. This is the latest sign of the escalating food inflation that is severely affecting customers throughout the country.
It started with McDonald’s. Subway followed suit. Burger King is currently imitating its rivals. The Times of India reported that two Burger King outlets had posted, “Even tomatoes need a vacation. We are unable to add tomatoes to our food.”
The burger franchise posted a query on their support page on the website, “Why are there no tomatoes in my burgers?” and explained quality and supply problems as the reason for eliminating tomatoes from their food.
In several locations, particularly the NCR region, tomato prices have increased by over eight times. Delhi’s retail tomato prices range from Rs 170 to Rs 200 per kilogram, a startling increase of nearly 700% since January 1. Consumer anxiety over the significant price increase, which is being fueled by supply delays brought on by heavy rain, has led many homes to temporarily give up tomatoes, a key component in traditional Indian meals. Retail inflation reached a 15-month high of 7.44% in July, driven mostly by sharp increases in the cost of tomatoes, vegetables, and other eatables.
The National Statistical Office (NSO) has published data showing that the CPI-based inflation in the food basket was 11.51% in July, and then there was a dramatic rise from 4.55% the month before and 6.69% in July 2022.
The annual inflation rate for the basket of vegetables, spices, pulses, and goods in July was 37.44%, 21.63%, 13.27%, and 13%. The Center has announced additional steps to lessen the burden on the average person as tomato prices soar.
According to the Economic Times, the Consumer Affairs Ministry has instructed cooperatives like Nafed and NCCF to purchase tomatoes from states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra for distribution to significant consumption centers.