Thousands of tonnes of UK produce being destroyed every day

Published 2023년 5월 29일

Tridge summary

British cucumber growers are facing challenges due to high energy costs, delayed planting, and an influx of excess cucumbers from other European countries. The delay in the Spanish crop and Dutch planting has led to a surge in imports, resulting in low prices and reduced sales in the UK. The lack of EU subsidies and the cost of labor are further exacerbating the situation. Many growers are considering halting plantings and stopping operations due to the unsustainable losses. The Government is called upon to address the labor shortage and the energy crisis.

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Original content

British cucumber growers have not had it easy in the last few years, and 2023 is not looking any better. “It is the perfect storm,” said Lea Stiles from Lea Valley Growers Association. “Growers delayed planting by a couple of months due to high energy costs and are now in full production. Meanwhile, the Spanish crop, which would normally be finished by now, was delayed because of cold weather, and they are still exporting to try to make up for losses. The Dutch growers also delayed planting due to energy costs and are in full swing.” The excess European cucumbers are all being sent to the UK, driving prices down. Sales have also been down by between 7 – 10% in the UK because of unseasonably cold weather. This has resulted in prices for some cucumbers at 8 cents per piece when they should be 40. “Anything being imported from the EU has had the benefit of EU subsidies, UK growers don’t get these, they didn’t get them before Brexit either as most of the growers are too small and ...

Source: Hortidaily