Queenslanders are finding the prices of hot chips (fries) to be too high to handle. As a result of a poor supply of potatoes, they are rising to as much as $12 (Aus dollar) for a tiny serve. Some stores have reportedly had to take extreme steps in order to keep their fryer full.
950,000 tonnes of potatoes are produced in Australia each year, mostly in Victoria and Tasmania. According to Shaun Lindhe at AUSVEG, unusually wet weather has had an effect on and in some instances completely wiped out varieties intended to be hot chips. However, the supply of fresh potatoes is unaffected.
Some chip stores, like Good Lookin Rooster, are now importing chips from nations like the United States for twice the price.