UK faces shortages due to import problems, where are the tomatoes?

LONDON, (Reuters) - Britain is facing a tomato shortage after supplies to supermarkets including market leader Tesco and number two Sainsbury's were affected by crop disruptions in southern Europe. and North Africa. Supermarkets said the situation was exacerbated by lower winter production in UK and Dutch greenhouses due to high energy costs. Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability for the British Retail Consortium (BRC), which represents major supermarkets, said difficult weather conditions in southern Europe and north Africa impacted several crops, including tomatoes and Peppers. "Although the disruption is expected to last a few weeks, supermarkets are experts in managing supply chain issues and are working with farmers to ensure customers can access a wide range of fresh produce," he added. Social networks have been flooded with images of empty fruit and vegetable shelves, with a particular shortage of tomatoes. Although self-sufficient in the summer, the UK typically ...