Understanding Israeli Supermarkets: A Newcomer’s Guide
Moving to a new country is always an exciting adventure, but it comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to navigating everyday tasks like grocery shopping. If you’ve recently arrived in Israel, you may have noticed that Israeli supermarkets have their own unique quirks, products, and shopping culture. But don’t worry! Once you understand how things work, you’ll feel like a local in no time. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the most of your supermarket trips in Israel.
1. Types of Supermarkets: From Discount Chains to Specialty Stores
Israeli supermarkets come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Understanding the differences between them can help you find the right spot for your grocery needs.
Discount Supermarkets:
If you’re looking to save money, chains like Shufersal Deal, Rami Levy, and Yohananof are your go-to options. These supermarkets offer lower prices on many staple items, including fresh produce, dairy, and packaged goods. Rami Levy, in particular, is famous for its competitive pricing and large selection. However, these stores can get crowded, especially before Shabbat and holidays, so plan accordingly.
Regular Supermarkets:
For a more typical grocery shopping experience, Shufersal Sheli (the regular branch of Shufersal), and Mega Ba’ir are popular choices. These stores offer a good balance between price, selection, and convenience. You’re likely to find a wider range of international products in these stores, which is great if you’re craving something familiar from back home.
Specialty and Niche Stores:
For those with specific dietary needs, there’s good news: Israel has a growing number of organic and health food stores. Chains like Teva Castel and Eden Teva Market cater to shoppers looking for organic, gluten-free, or vegan products. You can also find smaller specialty stores focusing on kosher, Middle Eastern, or even Russian products, depending on the neighborhood you’re in.
2. What to Expect in Israeli Supermarkets
Now that you know where to shop, let’s dive into what you can expect once you’re inside the supermarket.
Kosher Products:
The vast majority of supermarkets in Israel carry only kosher products, which means that meat and dairy products are strictly separated. You’ll notice that there are specific aisles or sections dedicated to dairy (halavi) and meat (basari), and you won’t find them sold together in the same area. If you’re new to this, it might take a little getting used to, but it also helps to know when you’re buying kosher food without needing to inspect each individual item.
Fresh Produce:
Israeli supermarkets generally offer a wide variety of fresh produce, much of which is locally grown. You’ll find fruits and vegetables that are in season, and some items may even be unfamiliar to you. For example, sabres (prickly pears) or khatilim (eggplants) are common here, but might not be if you’re coming from a different part of the world. Don’t hesitate to ask the store employees for advice on how to prepare these items if you’re curious!
Self-Weighing Produce:
Unlike in many other countries, in some Israeli supermarkets, you’ll need to weigh your fruits and vegetables yourself before heading to the checkout. Look for a nearby scale, place your items on it, and press the corresponding button (there’s usually a number or picture to match the item). The scale will print a barcode sticker for you to attach to the bag. Not doing this could hold up the line, so be prepared!
Shopping on Shabbat and Holidays:
One of the most significant cultural aspects that newcomers need to be aware of is that most supermarkets in Israel close early on Fridays in preparation for Shabbat (the Jewish day of rest). They remain closed throughout Saturday and reopen on Saturday evening after Shabbat ends. This is crucial to know if you’re used to 24/7 shopping, as you’ll need to plan your grocery trips accordingly. Additionally, during Jewish holidays like Passover, supermarkets undergo special preparations, and you’ll notice entire sections dedicated to holiday-specific foods (such as matzah during Passover).
3. Tips for a Smooth Shopping Experience
Shopping in Israel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some tips to make your supermarket trips smoother and more enjoyable.
Bring Your Own Bags:
In recent years, Israel has implemented a small fee for plastic bags in supermarkets, so it’s a good idea to bring your own reusable bags. Not only will you save a bit of money, but you’ll also be helping the environment. If you forget, you can always purchase a bag at the checkout, but expect to pay around 10 agorot per bag.
The Checkout Process:
The checkout process in Israeli supermarkets is fairly similar to other countries, with one notable exception: cashiers tend to work quickly, and there are no bagging clerks. You’ll be expected to bag your own groceries while simultaneously paying, so be prepared to move swiftly. If you’re feeling rushed, don’t worry—it’s all part of the experience, and you’ll get the hang of it soon enough.
Club Cards and Discounts:
Many Israeli supermarkets offer loyalty programs that allow you to save money on future purchases. For example, Shufersal has a membership card that offers special discounts on selected items. If you plan on shopping at the same store frequently, it’s worth signing up for a club card to take advantage of these deals. You can usually sign up at the customer service desk or online.
Conclusion
Navigating Israeli supermarkets may feel a bit daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, it can be a fun and enriching experience. From discovering new foods to learning about local customs, your trips to the grocery store will soon become another way you connect with life in Israel. Whether you’re shopping for Shabbat dinner or just picking up some fresh produce, knowing the ins and outs of Israeli supermarkets will help you feel more at home in your new country.
So grab your reusable bags, get ready to weigh your produce, and embrace the unique shopping culture of Israel – you’ll be a pro in no time!