Torrential rain and a sudden cold snap across Europe are having a negative impact on imported fresh produce.
Torrential Rain in Spain.
During mid December 2016, Spain suffered from a spell of torrential rain. This heavy downpour has resulted in severe damage to the greenhouses and fields that provide around 80% of Europe’s fresh produce during the winter months.
The floods caused by this rainfall have wiped out the majority of newly planted crops. Although the more mature crops have survived the rain, farmers are unable to harvest due to the fields being water logged and unsafe for vehicles.
Crops most immediately effected will be lettuce (particularly cos and iceberg), spinach and baby leaf. The effects could possibly soon spread to broccoli, cauliflowers and courgettes due to the excess moisture causing rot.
Deep Freeze in Italy.
The unexpected snow and freezing conditions in Southern Italy have also had an adverse effect on produce coming from Europe. Table grapes that are grown in tunnels are at risk of being crushed under the weight of the snow. Crops including lettuce, chicory, baby leaf, broccoli, cauliflower, fennel, rocket and spinach are all at risk due to the cold temperatures.
Tomato Price Rise.
The long term impact of these unexpected weather conditions is difficult to foresee at the moment. We are however still experiencing the ramifications from poor weather across Europe last year. The main European tomato growing regions experienced such poor weather during the main planting periods (April and May) that crops were delayed. This has led to wholesale prices being 36 percent higher than the previous year.
Not all Doom & Gloom
We are seeing some superb produce from growers throughout the U.K. Currently we have fantastic Kales, Chards, Potatoes, Carrots, Parsnips, Savoy and Cauliflower arriving daily with no foreseeable problems. Although the season is just starting there is some wonderful forced Yorkshire Rhubarb on the market at the moment.
Sources
Telegraph.
Fruitnet.
Produce Business.
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