Europe’s scorching summer is predicted to result in the smallest potato crop in years, threatening further price rises for popular foods such as fries. Parched conditions in Germany, France, the Netherlands and Belgium - the northwestern belt that accounts for most European Union potato output - could push EU production to its lowest on record, below that seen in similarly drought-hit 2018.
European producers caution that crop estimates are tentative before the main harvest gets underway in September, and that rain showers and recent cooler temperatures may bring late relief. But on some farms, there is scant hope.
International food firms like McDonald’s have also raised prices this year in response to mounting commodity costs, with fries among items it increased in Britain this summer.
Costs of chips to double
Experts warn costs of chips will double - and the price won't drop until at least 2024. Two experts have cast their expert opinions on the ongoing 'potato crisis' - warning it is far from over.
Now chip experts say wholesale prices are on the rise as a result - costs which will be passed on to customers in restaurants, takeaways and supermarkets. Coupled with the rising prices of oil and energy, this could see a portion of humble chip shop chips double in cost, said one expert.
Source: reuters.com