The floods in Spain have created turmoil in our supermarkets. The country being one of our largest producers, risks of shortage can be expected from now on for this fruit.
The torrential rains that fell in the Valencia region caused numerous human, material and health damage in November, with a tragic toll of around 223 dead and 78 missing. This meteorological phenomenon was “the revealer of a strong vulnerability” of the Mediterranean coast, according to Geoconfluences. Indeed, these floods have put the Spanish agri-food sectors in difficulty, in particular that of citrus production. Many farms, mainly in the Valence region, were destroyed by water. Having become inaccessible, they threaten the supply of food to France. According to France Blue Roussillonthis shortage could hit soon and last for the next few months.
Spain, considered the “vegetable garden of Europe”, is one of the most important fruit and vegetable producers on the continent. The Iberian Peninsula supplies 77% of zucchini, 84% of cucumbers, 76% of salad and a large part of the citrus fruits consumed in France. Rising water levels therefore lead to a drastic drop in these exports.
And the arrivals of clementines are not spared. This seasonal fruit, however, has the habit of abounding on winter stalls. Rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants, it helps strengthen the immune system and reduce fatigue, which is often more pressing under the effect of the cold.
Usually, this month of November sees a peak in clementine consumption, but in Perpignan, the supply was long and perilous: Spanish transporters were blocked for a long time, not being able to take the direct highway to go back to Barcelona and deliver in France, worried the operator of a transport company based in Saint-Charles, in an article in France Blue Roussillon. These itinerary constraints came for a time in addition to production almost at a standstill.
The main problem lies in the life expectancy of the clementines, sensitized by the floods: “The fruits are waterlogged and risk rotting”, indicates the professional. As a result, a drastic decline is expected across the country. “60% of arrivals for France” are affected. And that’s not all, oranges, zucchini, eggplants, peppers and tomatoes will also be less present in French markets.