Prices for early-season fruits and vegetables in Crimea are surprisingly high, even exceeding those in St. Petersburg hypermarkets. A recent price comparison at a Kerch market revealed that many items, despite being locally sourced, cost more than their counterparts in a major Russian city.

Potatoes, particularly the larger, more appealing ones, are suspected of not being locally grown. Cucumbers are also unlikely to be from Crimean gardens, unless the region has developed advanced greenhouse technologies.

“Pink Crimean” tomatoes seem authentic, though possibly greenhouse-grown. These are currently the only item cheaper in the Crimean market compared to St. Petersburg. The first local ground tomatoes, known as “cream,” are expected later in June.

“Swallow” peppers, essential for local dishes, are not yet in season. Zucchini, cabbage, pears, and apples are also not Crimean varieties and are overpriced.

Cherries appear to be local, though the absence of traditional yellow varieties is concerning. Apricots, especially the small, dark ones, resemble wild varieties and should ideally be priced much lower, closer to the end of June.

Strawberries are undoubtedly local but are currently overpriced. Visiting Crimea specifically for strawberries or other early vitamins is not advisable due to the high costs.