Summary
There is a concern about a potential shortage of British-grown peas due to unusually dry and sunny weather, resulting in the earliest harvest in 14 years. Farmers in key pea-growing regions like Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire have reported up to a 30% decrease in harvested peas. Recent weather conditions, including heatwaves and lack of rain, have led to lower yields, which may cause shortages in supermarket freezers.
Key Facts
- Farmers expect a shortage of British-grown peas because of unusually dry and sunny weather.
- Harvest started earlier than usual, marking the earliest in 14 years.
- Pea-growing regions like Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, and East Yorkshire saw up to a 30% decrease in harvested peas.
- England experienced its driest spring in over 100 years, followed by the warmest June on record.
- The early harvest and heat stress caused many peas not to develop properly, with fewer peas in each pod.
- Farmers face challenges as crops dry out and die due to heat and lack of moisture.
- Peas need to be frozen within about 4 hours after picking to maintain quality.
- Recent rainfalls have been insufficient to improve the situation significantly.
