The blizzard that hit Israel earlier this month resulted in significant damage in many areas, including vegetable crops. Some vegetable prices have increased hundreds of percent as a result of the destruction to crops.

Globes reports the price of tomatoes at wholesalers today was 8.40 NIS per kilogram compared with just 2.50 NIS three weeks ago – a rise of 236%. Cucumber prices have risen by 122% from 3.50 NIS per kilogram to 7.80 today NIS. Cucumbers in Shuk Machane Yehuda were selling on Wednesday 22 Teves for 10.90 NIS a kg.

The largest price rise has been recorded by eggplants which have soared five-fold from 1.50 NIS per kilogram before the storm to 8.50 NIS per kilogram – a rise of 466%.

Zucchini has more than tripled in price from 4 NIS per kilogram to 13 NIS while lettuce has doubled from 18 NIS for eight units to 16 NIS. Cauliflower has risen 218% in price to 7 NIS from 2.2 NIS.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)