A beautiful sight: The apricot blossom with its white to light pink buds. Not so pleasing when the delicate blossoms are confronted by snow and frost. Unfortunately, this was the case in many growing regions this spring:
It snowed in Turkey in April and temperatures fell to as low as minus 15 degrees in some areas - the lowest temperatures in the last 30 years in some places. As a result, Turkey's leaves, buds and fruit of agricultural products suffered greatly. The extent of the actual damage to the apricots will only become clear at harvest time. However, our local expert told us a few days ago: "Optimists are expecting losses of 20 to 30 per cent, others are talking about 40 to 50 per cent." Prices will therefore rise - also because the same fruit is used for the fresh market and for industrial use.
Similar information from Italy and Greece: It is too early for exact figures. However, the trends are clear here too.
The news from northern China is also negative. A cold spell in mid-April was followed by severe storms. Particularly affected: The two large regions of Shanxi and Hebei. "Fruiting was disrupted as a result. We are currently expecting a crop decline of 30 to 40 per cent," says our partner.
No matter where we look at the moment: The apricot market is tight. Waiting for the harvest is difficult with these prospects. We will of course continue to report for you in our Food News.