How to save money on fresh produce in Czechia amid rising prices

As the cost of fruits and vegetables continues to rise, shoppers in Prague and beyond are looking for ways to make their grocery budgets go further. With the average price of apples reaching its highest level this year – CZK 42.66 per kilogram in August 2024 – it's clear that inflation and other economic factors are impacting everyday grocery bills.

However, with some strategy, you can still find affordable produce. Here are some practical tips for finding fresh fruits and vegetables without breaking the bank and insights into current pricing trends.

Several major grocery chains in the Czech Republic, including Kaufland, Lidl, Billa, and Penny, have launched initiatives to reduce food waste by offering discounted fruits and vegetables. These programs help cut down on waste and provide shoppers with opportunities to buy fresh produce at lower prices.

Kaufland recently introduced its “Nekrm koš!” (“Don’t Feed the Bin!”) campaign, which offers discounted fruit and vegetables in dedicated stands within their stores. The produce, originally packaged by suppliers, is sold at reduced prices due to its higher ripeness or approaching expiration date. This makes it perfect for immediate consumption or for use in recipes like salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes.

Lidl has a similar initiative, “With Lidl, We Save Food,” where shoppers can purchase a three-kilogram bag of mixed fruits and vegetables for just CZK 25. These bags typically contain produce that is still good but may not meet the usual visual standards. Lidl also has designated corners in their stores for discounted items nearing their use-by dates.

Billa's “Nejsme k zahození” (“We Are Not Wasting”) campaign offers bags of ripe fruits and vegetables ready for immediate use. These are perfect for making fresh juices, soups, or stews on a budget.

Penny collaborates with the Nesnězeno app to sell pre-packaged bags of discounted produce, baked goods, and other items nearing expiration. Shoppers can get these mixed bags for CZK 79 or even find crates of discounted items directly in some stores without needing the app.

Several factors are driving the rise in produce prices, especially for apples. According to the Czech Statistical Office, the average price of apples in August 2024 was CZK 42.66/per kilogram, up CZK 5.5 from January of the same year.

Czech fruit growers receive less state support than their counterparts in countries like Poland or Germany, making local production more expensive. This disparity often results in higher prices for consumers in the Czech Republic.

Retailers, particularly those with foreign ownership, often prioritize cost optimization and profit, leading to higher store shelf prices. While some argue that Czech stores prefer local fruit when available, the economics of importing cheaper goods can influence what ends up in your local supermarket.

Weather conditions have also played a role. With an anticipated lower fruit harvest this year, growers are not the primary reason for price increases. Instead, additional costs such as packaging, transportation, storage, and retailer surcharges significantly impact final prices.

While major grocery chains offer convenience, shopping at local farmers’ markets or directly from farms can sometimes be more affordable, especially for seasonal produce. When fruits and vegetables are in season, they are typically more abundant and less expensive. Consider visiting local markets to find fresh, locally grown apples and other fruits at competitive prices.

You can also pick apples for free in Prague. On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Ctěnice castle complex is hosting an apple-picking event, where guests can experience traditional apple harvest festivities against the backdrop of centuries-old trees. Visitors can hand-pick apples straight from the orchard located near the Riding Hall from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Ongoing events include an apple strudel contest, food carving, and art workshops, a theater performance for kids, and an apple game.

The Na Ovoce initiative will host a fruit Festival on Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Na Klíčov orchard in Vysočany. Attendees can participate in cider pressing and jam making and enjoy music and food in the friendly atmosphere among the old trees.

If you find a good deal on fruits and vegetables, buying in bulk and preserving them can be a great way to save money in the long run. Apples, for instance, can be turned into apple sauce, dried as snacks, or frozen for future use. This saves money and ensures you always have fresh produce on hand.