Israeli Holiday Meal Costs Soar Ahead of Rosh Hashanah

Preparations for Rosh Hashanah are expected to be more expensive this year as prices for key holiday staples have risen compared to last year. A survey indicates an overall increase of 2.5% to 5% in the average holiday shopping basket, with some individual items seeing more significant price jumps.

Notable price hikes include honey, with a liter of a well-known brand now costing around 40 shekels, compared to private labels priced between 17.90 and 19.90 shekels. Pomegranates, a traditional symbol of the holiday, have also become more expensive, with prices per kilogram increasing from a previous range of 3.90-5.90 shekels to the current 7.90-14.90 shekels. Wine prices have also climbed, with a 750ml bottle of a specific brand now costing 36.90 shekels, up from 31.90 shekels.

The cost of main courses has also increased, with a whole fish now averaging 90-95 shekels, up from about 80 shekels previously. These increases contribute to a growing overall cost for the holiday meal, even before adding side dishes, drinks, and desserts.

Consumer habits highlight the importance of meat and poultry during the holidays. In 2025, Israelis consumed an average of 20.2 kg of beef per person, a 7% increase from 2024, and chicken consumption stood at about 51 kg per person annually, with sales rising approximately 35% before Rosh Hashanah. Pomegranate consumption also peaks around the holiday, with about 16% of the annual 2.8 kg per person consumed in the week leading up to Rosh Hashanah.

Ultimately, the average shopping basket for Rosh Hashanah is estimated to cost around 1,500 shekels. While the overall percentage increase may seem modest, the cumulative effect of rising prices on a large holiday purchase is noticeable. Consumers can save hundreds of shekels by comparing prices between different supermarket chains and by opting for private labels over well-known brands, especially for items like honey, fruit, fish, and other holiday goods.