The UK's fish and chip shops could soon face a shortage of mushy peas, a classic side dish, as a prolonged heatwave disrupts crop harvesting. The hot weather is predicted to hamper pea yields, potentially driving up prices for the beloved accompaniment.
Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers, described the potential shortage as the latest in a series of challenges for the industry. "Everywhere we look there's a challenge," Crook said. "Peas and potatoes, we rely on them. The weather has a massive impact on those things. We are expecting a bad year on both."
Rising Costs Add Pressure
The threat of a mushy pea shortage comes amid broader cost increases. A report by industry body Seafish found that the average price of cod and chips has risen to £11.41, while haddock and chips now costs £10.29. Crook noted, "We're expecting an expensive year. Everything's stacked against us. With peas, it's another blow."
Crook emphasized the nutritional role of mushy peas: "Peas are important for fish and chips. It's one of your five a day, which makes it a nutritionally balanced meal." He added that while shop owners might absorb some price rises, government support is needed on issues like business rates.
Industry Under Strain
Earlier this year, reports indicated that thousands of fish and chip shops were at risk of closure due to soaring costs for energy, cooking oil, and fish. Crook stated, "Everybody's costs have gone up. Everybody's feeling the pain."
The mushy pea shortage is the latest blow to an industry already struggling with inflationary pressures. Without intervention, the classic British meal may become more expensive for consumers.
