Kerala govt's Kerafed slashes coconut oil price by over ₹30 ahead of Onam, launches marigold project

Kerafed has announced a reduction in the prices of its 'Kera' coconut oil ahead of Onam, alongside the launch of a marigold cultivation project aimed at generating additional income from unused land.

The state's apex cooperative for coconut farmers has reduced the price of its flagship 'Kera' coconut oil to provide relief to consumers during the Onam festival.

A one-litre packet of Kera coconut oil will now be available for ₹299, down from ₹332. The price of the 500ml pack has also been reduced to ₹151 from ₹167.

The revised festive prices have come into effect at Kerafed retail outlets across Kerala.

Alongside the price reduction, Kerafed has urged customers to be cautious of counterfeit products in the market.

Officials said several imitation brands with names similar to 'Kera' are being sold to mislead buyers. Consumers have been advised to check for the official Kerafed logo before purchasing to ensure they are getting genuine coconut oil.

The federation also pointed out that some competing brands sell 900ml packets instead of a full litre while lowering costs by compromising on hygiene and quality standards. Kerafed said its Kera coconut oil is supplied without compromising on quality.

Kerafed launches marigold cultivation project

In addition to its festive price initiative, Kerafed has begun cultivating marigolds on vacant land at its Karunagappally complex.

Around 2,000 marigold seedlings have been planted to meet the seasonal demand for flowers used in Onam floral carpets (pookalam).

The project is intended to make productive use of unused factory land while creating an additional source of revenue for the cooperative. The initiative, inaugurated recently, is the first phase of a wider plan to develop dry land at Kerafed factories for income-generating agricultural activities.

Through these initiatives, Kerafed is expanding both its consumer-focused and agricultural activities in the run-up to Kerala's biggest festival.