Shortage of potatoes and fries

The cold and wet weather that has been recorded in eastern Australia has affected potato production causing delays in planting and preparation.

 

In November, some professionals had warned of the "very bad season" which could affect the supply of potatoes. Especially the supply of frozen potato products.

 

In December, Coles Supermarkets imposed a purchase limit of 2 packets of frozen French fries for an indefinite period and due to severe flooding along Australia's east coast.

 

Since the holiday season, the situation has worsened and the shortage of frozen fries is affecting catering professionals who fear that stocks will drop to 0 during the month of January.

 

According to AUSVEG data in the 2020/21 season, Australia produced 1,458,991 tonnes of potatoes. The main producing regions are NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania.