As Israel faces the ongoing War of Iron Swords, its economic consequences are significantly affecting food security, particularly during the Rosh Hashana and Sukkot holidays. Recent findings by Leket and BDO indicate a noticeable rise in food prices, with fruits and vegetables experiencing a 9% increase, meat 7%, chicken 6%, and dairy products 4% compared to the previous year. This situation is exacerbated by the war's financial toll, exceeding NIS 250 billion, potential escalations, and Israel's downgraded credit rating, pushing many towards nutritional insecurity.
Joseph Gitler, Leket Israel's founder and chairman, emphasized the dire circumstances facing nearly half a million Israeli families, now forced to opt for less nutritious food options. "Nutritional insecurity means you have to make choices. And sometimes the choice is, 'I can't buy the right food, I need to buy enough food.'" The conflict has also displaced 143,000 individuals, with many unable to return to their homes or livelihoods, further complicating access to nutritious meals.
Chen Herzog, BDO's chief economist, highlighted the agricultural impact, noting that 30% of Israel's agricultural land is in conflict areas, reducing harvests and labor force participation. The shortage of Palestinian and foreign workers has been a critical issue since the onset of the war. Despite increased food imports, shortages and price hikes have persisted, leading to a decline in fresh produce consumption among financially strained populations.
Gitler also pointed out the challenges faced by Israeli farmers, particularly in the north, rendering their fields unworkable and plunging them into a catastrophic situation. The destruction caused by Hamas on October 7 has led to significant agricultural losses, emphasizing the need for community support and governmental intervention.
The rising food prices and reduced agricultural productivity are expected to strain Israel's health system, with a shift towards less nutritious, processed foods. Leket and BDO's research connects poor nutrition to higher health costs, projecting an increase in healthcare expenditures due to the war. Despite these challenges, Leket Israel continues to provide for those in need, underscoring the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis.
The Israeli government's National Plan for Food Security 2050 aims to address these issues by promoting local production, ensuring sustainable food systems, and managing risks. However, the current conflict poses significant hurdles to these long-term goals, with the war affecting both local production and imports.
Source: themedialine