Fish affordable as meat prices rise, markets draw crowds | Goa News - The Times of India

Panaji: As meat prices continue to rise, fish has emerged as a comparatively affordable option, drawing shoppers to local fish markets in recent days. Vendors report brisk sales, with many households opting for seafood to manage food budgets without sacrificing protein intake.Popular local fish such as Muddoshi are selling at around Rs 200/kg, making them one of the most economical choices on offer. Mackerel is priced slightly higher at Rs 300/kg, while Vellio and Lepo are each selling for about Rs 400/kg.Larger and premium seafood varieties are also seeing strong demand. Chonak is priced at Rs 800/kg, while crab is available at Rs 450/kg. Large squid are selling for Rs 500/kg, while mid-sized squid are selling for Rs 400/kg, and prawns range between Rs 400 and Rs 700/kg, depending on size.In contrast, prices of other meats remain high. Chicken is currently selling at around Rs 190/kg, while beef costs approximately Rs 350/kg with bone and Rs 400/kg for boneless cuts. Mutton remains the most expensive option, priced at about Rs 850/kg."The price difference is clearly influencing consumer choices. People are buying more fish because it is fresher, healthier, and easier on the pocket compared to mutton or beef," said vendor Yaru Lamani, adding that sales volumes increased noticeably over the past week."Now that Christmas is over, people perhaps no longer feel obligated to purchase the red and white meats; instead, they are ringing in the New Year with seafood spreads," said meat vendor Shoaibh Bepary.With meat prices staying high, traders expect the fish demand to remain strong in the coming weeks.