Dried fruit and nuts on a platter, traditionally eaten on Tu B'Shevat. Photo: Gilabrand via Wikimedia Commons.

A study carried out by the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture found that the cost of fruits and vegetables in Israel are lower – sometimes even significantly lower – when compared to prices of fruits and vegetables in the United States and Western European countries including France, Germany, and the U.K.

Eleven fruits and vegetables were surveyed in America and Israel and all fruits except for bananas  were found to be cheaper in Israel. In the vegetable department, the study found that the average price of a kilogram of tomatoes in the U.S. was 340% higher than in Israel and the average price of peppers was 116% higher.

Among fruits, clementines and peaches are significantly cheaper in Israel, as prices in the U.S. for those particular fruits are twice the cost.

The study in price comparison between the United States and Israel was done between April and June of 2013. An additional price study between Israel and Western European countries was completed more recently according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

In regards to Western Europe, the price comparison study covered 12 different fruits and vegetables and found that except for onions (cheaper in Germany), fruits and vegetables were cheaper in Israel. The study showed that a kilo of cucumbers costs 270% more in France than in Israel and 260% more in Germany.  Avocados in the United Kingdom also cost significantly more, with a kilo of avocados costing 316% more in Britain than in Israel.

According to a Globes business report, the Ministry of Agriculture said that it was not surprised by findings on Wednesday. The Ministry highlighted that the primary reason for the lower prices is that most produce in Israel is grown domestically and that there is little imported produce. Further, fruits and vegetables in Israel are grown throughout the year, which means that there is generally a stable and steady supply.