Bierzo pepper producers are concerned about falling sales. There are still stocks from last year, so production will have to be halved.
2012 will be the worst year on record for Bierzo peppers since the creation of the Protected Geographical Indication in 2002.
Only 9 hectares from the usual 17 have been planted and some growers will not even harvest the product. Firms trading with the processed product are suffering low sales because of consumption falls.
Over 60% of 2011's production has not been sold yet and, given the recession, both individual and professional consumers are avoiding high quality products.
The harvest season has been delayed until the second half of September. Roasted Bierzo peppers are produced at eight processing plants.
Source: Rtvcyl