Hyderabad: Custard apple prices rise across Telangana as strong seasonal demand coincides with declining yields and supply shortages. The fruit is selling for Rs.100 to Rs.150 per kg in local markets.
In Hyderabad, individual custard apples cost between Rs.30 and Rs.50, depending on their size and quality. Consequently, the seasonal fruit has become increasingly expensive for ordinary consumers despite its popularity during winter.
Vendors are sourcing substantial quantities from villages to meet demand. However, reduced production and unfavourable weather conditions have affected supplies from several growing areas.
Farmers have reported a sharp decline in fruit production compared with last year. The impact of El Niño and erratic rainfall is believed to be among the major factors behind the lower yields.
Custard apple prices rise as farmers report sharp yield losses
High temperatures and irregular rainfall patterns linked to El Niño have affected custard apple orchards across Telangana. Farmers in major growing regions reported that trees which normally produced 50 to 60 fruits yielded fewer than 10 this season. Moreover, adverse weather conditions caused flowers to wither and fruits to fall prematurely.
The decline in production has affected farmers and others who depend on the seasonal crop for their livelihoods. Meanwhile, wild monkeys have caused additional damage to orchards in districts including Mahabubnagar and Jagtial. The animals have destroyed fruits before harvesting, further reducing the quantities available for sale.
These losses have contributed to supply shortages at a time when consumer demand remains high. According to traders, reduced local production has increased Hyderabad’s dependence on custard apples brought from Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The shortage has placed additional pressure on market supplies. As a result, custard apple prices rise during a season when consumers traditionally seek the fruit for its taste and nutritional value.
Meanwhile, Telangana’s indigenous Balanagar custard apple variety is seeking a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The proposed recognition aims to preserve and protect the region’s traditional farming heritage.
The Balanagar variety forms part of Telangana’s local agricultural identity, even as growers face challenges from changing weather conditions and crop damage.
Custard apples contain dietary fibre, carbohydrates, vitamins and essential minerals. These include vitamin C, potassium, calcium and magnesium. The fruit may support digestive health and contribute to bone health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Consumers can also identify ripeness by observing the fruit’s colour. Ripe custard apples generally develop a lighter green or yellowish-green appearance, while dark green fruits are often unripe. Despite higher prices, demand for the seasonal fruit remains strong across Telangana.
However, lower yields, weather-related damage and supply constraints continue to affect market availability. Consumers in Hyderabad are paying Rs.30 to Rs.50 for individual fruits, while prices elsewhere range from Rs.100 to Rs.150 per kg.