The European Fresh Produce Association (Freshfel), warned that product freshness, quality, and safety may be at risk without proper temperature-controlled storage and microbiological contamination will be heightened if cold chains are cut due to high energy costs.
The group said some fresh produce operators are facing electricity bills up to 10 times higher than the previous year. Prices are increasing due to the Russian war in Ukraine, and the demand following the Covid-19 pandemic.
Farmers are turning to different ways to manage energy costs, from earlier harvesting, shorter supply chains etc. Freshfel warns every aspect of farming needs energy and reducing consumption could lead to disrupted food and drink production.
