Due to severe inflation and the extreme heat that is ravaging the continent, food prices in Europe and Belgium have seen a dramatic rise. Because of persistent drought, farmers are seeing smaller harvests and lower quality produce.
There are certain crops that are burned by the sun, while others, such as cauliflowers and carrots, lack the moisture needed for growth. De Morgen reports that farmers across Belgium are concerned about similar drought issues, particularly in West Flanders.
With only 5 millimetres of rain in July 2022, it was the driest month in Belgium since 1885. As a result of heatwaves and extreme weather events, farmers’ union Boerenbond reports smaller harvests of onions, maize, beets and potatoes.
Farmers are dealing with serious issues, according to Danny Metsu, chairman of the General Farmers Syndicate. As a result of the drought, 70 to 80% of the bean crops in the region will be lost, while sprouts will lose approximately 20%.
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