Loja fruit prices rise ahead of Day of the Dead traditions

Consumers in Loja, Ecuador, are facing price increases of between 15% and 30% for fruits used to prepare colada morada, a traditional beverage for the Day of the Dead.

Black grapes have seen a significant rise, now exceeding USD 1.50 per pound compared to the previous price of USD 1.00. Other affected products include pineapple, mortiño, blackberry, and babaco. Local merchants note that these price hikes are a recurring seasonal trend driven by increased demand approximately 15 days before the holiday.

In response to the rising costs and limited availability of certain ingredients, citizens have called on local police and market authorities to intensify inspections. The goal is to monitor commercial conditions and prevent price speculation to ensure fair costs for households.