Prices for traditional Clean Monday foods in Cyprus show big differences. Some foods are much more expensive this year. However, other foods are cheaper than before. The Consumer Protection Service did a survey. It found that prices change a lot between different shops. Consumers need to compare prices carefully.
The survey looked at 67 shops across Cyprus. It showed that some costs are going up. But, shoppers can also find good deals on some items. For example, some vegetables and seafood are now cheaper. This might help people with their shopping budgets. However, other important ingredients have become more expensive.
Celery root prices went up a lot. It is now €2.32 per kilogram. Last year, it was €1.52. Small fresh octopus also cost more. The price increased by about 25%. Aubergine dip is more expensive too. Lagana bread, which is important for the meal, also saw a price rise. Tahini and cuttlefish are also a little more costly.
However, there is good news for some foods. Tomatoes are much cheaper. They cost €1.69 per kilogram now. Last year, they were €3.81. Kohlrabi and cucumbers are also less expensive. Prawns are cheaper by about 26%. Whole cleaned squid also cost less. Halloumi cheese prices stayed about the same.
The survey also found big price differences between shops. For example, large fresh octopus cost from €12.50 to €25.99 per kilogram. Halva prices also varied a lot. This shows that comparing prices can save money.
These price changes are part of a bigger trend. Many basic food items became more expensive in January. However, sugar prices went down. The survey helps people prepare for Clean Monday. Shoppers can save money by comparing prices.