London: The extreme heat and drought have disrupted UK vegetable production, forcing additional imports to meet rising domestic demand gaps and raising wholesale prices during peak growing season.
Pubs, restaurants and supermarkets turned to Spain for lettuce and broccoli supplies. This shift coincides with a period when domestic farms typically meet demand. Prolonged heat and limited rainfall reduce yields across key crops.
Wholesale prices rise steeply, with tomatoes increasing by more than 60 percent and iceberg lettuce prices surging by 90 percent. Potatoes climb by over 40 percent, reflecting broader pressure on vegetable markets. Even farms with irrigation systems report declining water reserves.
Farmers begin exploring crop varieties suited to warmer climates. Southern European varieties come under consideration as part of adaptation efforts. Investment in water storage emerges as a key concern. Growers call for reservoirs to capture winter and spring rainfall for summer use.
More than 100 organisations call for stronger government action. The group includes retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Aldi. Food manufacturers and wholesalers also support the appeal. The push focuses on making food security a national priority and reducing reliance on imports.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board reports that the cereals harvest starts earlier than at any time in at least 20 years. Across Europe, drought and extreme heat affect crops including wheat, tomatoes and olives.
Tomato supplies face additional pressure. Imports from the Netherlands and Belgium are also affected by high temperatures, leading to smaller and damaged produce. Carrot crops remain at risk, and without rainfall, supplies could run out earlier in spring, requiring further imports.
Farmers continue to call for support to build reservoirs. Planning approvals and high costs slow progress. Many farms operate on tight margins, limiting the ability to invest in long-term solutions.
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