Market Bag: Lettuce climbs to $1,400 as prices soar at market

Shoppers at Kingston's Coronation Market are facing sharply increased food costs, with lettuce prices skyrocketing to $1,400 per pound this week. This dramatic rise is attributed to the ongoing drought conditions plaguing Jamaica, which are exacerbating food scarcity and driving up prices.

The surge in lettuce prices represents a $400 increase from the previous week alone. Other essential items have also seen significant price hikes. Scotch bonnet peppers are now selling for $600 per pound, tomatoes for $350 per pound, sweet peppers for $500 per pound, and ripe bananas for $1,500 per pound. These escalating costs place a considerable strain on household budgets.

While many staples have become prohibitively expensive, some produce remains relatively more affordable. Onions and carrots are available at $250 per pound, and cucumbers are priced at $200 per pound. Hydroponic farmer Shemarr Henry discussed the impact of drought and rising prices on farming operations and consumer habits during a recent episode of 'Market Bag'.