Kerala is staring at a festive season price shock as coconut oil—a kitchen staple in the state—may soar to ₹600 per litre by Onam. The surge is driven by a severe global copra shortage, which has sent fresh coconut prices skyrocketing from ₹35 to ₹85 per kg in just six months. With Supplyco, the state-run Civil Supplies Corporation, holding just 1.5 lakh litres against a monthly requirement of 15 lakh litres, the crisis has already hit ration card holders, as Maveli stores slashed subsidised coconut oil distribution from over 11 lakh litres to under 4 lakh litres in June. To ease the pressure, the Kerala government is now seriously considering introducing palm oil as a cheaper alternative.
Food Minister G. R. Anil confirmed the move is under active discussion, though volatile global prices pose financial risks. The switch, however, could spark cultural and culinary concerns, as coconut oil is deeply embedded in Kerala’s identity and cuisine. As Onam approaches, the government faces a high-stakes challenge: stabilize prices without compromising tradition.
