UK Europe heatwaves drive food prices higher

Soaring temperatures and droughts across the UK and Europe are set to drive food prices higher, according to warnings from the Food and Drink Federation (FDF). The FDF said fruit, vegetable and grain supply are being hit by recent heatwaves, with crop shortages expected to feed into supermarket prices. Economists from the trade group suggested this will put upward pressure on food inflation going into 2027. Supply of UK-grown produce such as broccoli and cherries has already come under pressure, while poor grain harvests are driving up animal feed costs, potentially leading to more expensive meat as farmers reduce herd sizes. The United Kingdom — Met Office warned of a fresh heatwave with temperatures reaching the mid-30s in parts of the UK. The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (ADHB) reported that milk production has been impacted by heat-stressed cows and poor grazing conditions. The British Retail Consortium said retailers are experienced in managing supply disruptions and will source from alternative suppliers where appropriate. The FDF noted that manufacturers are already grappling with rising costs due to the wars in Ukraine and Iran, and expect additional upward pressure on retail prices into next year.