Five-rupee packet of Parle G biscuits now sold at Rs 2400; Social media non-plussed by price hike

NEW DELHI: The Mumbai-based Parle G, the world’s largest-selling biscuits was hitherto available at a meagre cost of Rs 5 per packet. The biscuits suddenly sparked debates on social media after a Palestinian citizen embroiled in war in Gaza noted down on X, about how he splashed Rs 2400 for his daughter’s favorite biscuits amid fighting penury. The wide gap in the cost rate evoked doubts of exploitation by middlemen as the biscuits are provided as part of aid to the war-torn nation by India.

"After a long wait, I received Ravif's favourite biscuit today. Despite the price jumping from 1.5 euros to 24 euros, I couldn't deny Rafif her favourite treat," the viral post says.

Gaza has been experiencing a sharp increase in food prices since 2023. Israel has significantly reduced the supply of food to Gaza since the Hams offensive in October 2022. The Israeli army allows only a limited number of trucks carrying essential goods to cross the border. Israel alleged Hamas of seizing food supplies reaching Gaza without allowing them to the people.

According to people caught in the war-torn country, food supplies provided by other nations barely reach them. They are being sold at high prices to the public, only exacerbating the crisis. These food items, which are marked as export packets, do not mention the price. Therefore, they can charge whatever price they want. The prices of other food items are similarly sold at soaring rates.

Prices of essential commodities in Gaza

• 1 kg sugar: Rs 4914

• 1 litre cooking oil: Rs 4177

• 1 kg potatoes: Rs 1965

• 1 kg onions: Rs 4423

• 1 cup of coffee: Rs 1800

Gujarati businessman Mohanlal Dayal Chauhan was amused by the culture among wealthy European families to use biscuits as a quotidian dish alongside tea in the evenings. Chauhan wanted the culture to be emulated in India, so he gave wings to the world's largest biscuit brand.