A year after Australia's hot chip shortage, the industry still grapples with unresolved supply chain issues, indicating potential future shortages. Australian potatoes are primarily grown for three uses: hot chips, crisp chips, and fresh cooking potatoes. In January 2023, hot chip potatoes were scarce, with Victoria and Tasmania's yields affected by wet weather. Crisping potatoes also faced potential shortage.
Terry Buckley, a major potato grower in South Australia's Pleasant Park, warns that the industry is always on the brink of another shortage due to unpredictable weather conditions. Buckley is contractually obligated to grow specific potato varieties, limiting his ability to grow extra supplies in anticipation of difficult seasons. The industry largely grows to contract, leaving little room for surplus to cover potential shortfalls.
Stephanie Jacobs, senior climatologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, notes that Australia's south-east regions, including key potato-growing areas, are experiencing transitional climate patterns. Extreme temperatures and heavy rainfall are becoming more frequent, posing significant challenges to potato growers. With more extreme weather events predicted, the industry's future hinges on effective risk management strategies and diversified growing areas.
Source: abc.net.au
