Pistachios have surged by nearly 50% this year due to shortages, with 500 grams costing as much as two chickens. Sam’s Club has implemented a policy limiting purchases to one 1.13 kg bag per member every 30 days.
A street vendor in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, who has been dealing in nuts for 30 years, stated that pistachios have never risen to this price. Since the beginning of the year, the purchase price of pistachios has increased by almost 30 yuan, resulting in a nearly 50% overall price increase to 88 yuan per catty (500 grams), while cashews, macadamia nuts, and almonds cost between 48 and 58 yuan.
A Hangzhou chef also reported a significant impact, noting that the price of pistachios is now comparable to that of two chickens, so menus are gradually being replaced with almonds, macadamia nuts, and pistachios.