Soaring temperatures and the peak holiday period have caused retail sales and home consumption to plateau over the past week. However, the IFA says trade to the food service sector remains buoyant.
Ireland has experienced two heatwaves in less than a month. This is likely to have an impact on maincrop yields as drought conditions kick in. Late-planted crops will be worst affected.
There are numerous reports indicating that crops have “shut down” again as temperatures soar above 25 degrees. What’s more, unirrigated crops are stressed and growth rates negligible. Irrigation is in full swing wherever possible.
UK crops are under similar pressure due to prolonged high temperatures and very little rain. Irrigated crops have survived well. However, rapid senescence is now taking place and many will be burnt down over the next 10 days. High dry-matter levels will make crops susceptible to bruising and there have been rejections again this week on maincrop varieties and salad Maris Peer.
Meanwhile, many countries across Europe are reporting that planted acreage is down on 2021. Yields are also reduced in many regions due to ongoing drought.
Rooster box prices ranged from €380 to €450, averaging at €400. The rooster 10kg low was €4, reaching a high of €5, and averaging at €4.50. Meanwhile Kerr Pinks prices ranged from €5 to €6, averaging at €5.50.