He says: “The UK is traditionally self-sufficient in carrots with around 97 per cent being supplied by British growers. In fact, the British carrot growing industry is respected worldwide for its ability to produce ‘fresh from the field’ carrots 52 weeks of the year. However, we have suffered the ‘perfect storm’ of poor conditions this year.
Rodger points out that while some imports may be available, mainland Europe has also suffered from similar weather conditions and carrots are not plentiful there either.
The situation is compounded by Water Restrictions that are ‘turning off the tap’ on irrigation systems that are vital to the crop. The UK’s leading carrot agronomist, Howard Hinds (pictured above) says that he estimates that the crops he manages will yield 30 to 40 per cent less than last year.
Rodger Hobson says: “I have spoken to all the major carrot growers this week and they unanimously agree that the poor yields will massively push up UK production costs and that substantial imports will be required this season. Carrots are undoubtedly the ‘nation’s favourite vegetable’ and will still remain great value in terms of the nutrition and health benefits they provide. However, it is almost inevitable that the price in the shops will go up.”
www.britishgrowers.org