The All Ceylon Canteen Operators’ Association, led by Harshana Rukshan, has reported that the serving of popular dishes like coconut sambol and kiri hodi has been halted in many canteens nationwide due to escalating coconut prices. Currently, the price of a single coconut can reach up to Rs. 200 in the market.
Rukshan indicated that this surge in coconut prices, combined with the high costs of rice, eggs, and salt, would lead to a 30% increase in food prices at canteens. He also pointed out that the price of chicken has risen from Rs. 1,200 to Rs. 1,280 per kilo, further contributing to the financial strain on food preparation and sales.
The increased costs have not only impacted canteens but have also affected local food production, such as the making of hoppers and the preparation of lunch parcels. The soaring prices are challenging food vendors and consumers alike, with significant price adjustments expected as the market continues to grapple with rising ingredient costs.
