As Islamabad’s weather grows colder, the appetite for dry fruits among residents has soared.
Despite soaring prices, customers continue to flock to shops to stock up on these winter favorites.
Many people use dry fruits in traditional winter dishes, such as Gajar ka Halwa and Sohan Halwa, while bakeries and confectioneries enhance their desserts with these nutrient-rich ingredients to cater to the seasonal demand.
According to Pervaiz Khan, a dry fruit vendor, the current demand surpasses previous years.
He attributes this trend to the energy-boosting and cold-resistant properties of dry fruits, making them an essential part of winter diets.
However, he noted that prices have risen due to higher transportation and cultivation costs.
Almonds are priced between Rs4,800 and Rs5,600 per kilogram, walnuts range from Rs1,400 to Rs1,800 per kilogram, while cashews and figs cost around Rs3,600 and Rs4,000 per kilogram, respectively.
Pine nuts remain the most expensive at Rs14,000 per kilogram. Peanuts, however, are an affordable option, with prices varying based on their origin: Parachinar (Rs1,200/kg), Chakwal (Rs720/kg), and Gujjar Khan (Rs640/kg).
A local shopper, Muhammad Ahmed, expressed his preference for dry fruits during winter, citing their energy benefits and ability to combat the cold.
Another buyer shared plans to incorporate dry fruits into desserts for both taste and health benefits.
Online platforms have also reported a surge in dry fruit sales, with vendors offering competitive prices to attract customers.
However, online sellers face challenges like order cancellations, which increase operational costs.
Wazir Hashmat, a supplier from Gilgit-Baltistan, explained that dry fruits are sourced from regions such as Balochistan, Punjab, and Gilgit-Baltistan before being transported to major markets like Lahore.
He highlighted rising farming and transportation costs as primary factors driving up prices.
The winter season in Islamabad not only enhances the demand for dry fruits but also underscores their cultural and culinary importance, keeping the tradition alive amidst chilly weather.
