Heat waves hit tomato growers and egg farms
Slovak tomato growers report a 20-30% drop in output due to extreme heat. The problem isn't a lack of water but prolonged high temperatures, including at night, which limit growth and fruit formation. Lower yields and worse fruit quality are already pushing prices up, though growers and retailers alike are resisting price hikes given limits on consumers' purchasing power. Investments in greenhouse cooling are seen as hard to recoup. (sme.sk)
Heat waves are cutting egg-laying rates by 15% and slowing weight gain in chickens raised for meat, the Poultry Farmers Union said. The decline is mainly driven by lower feed intake. Cooling systems and ventilation in poultry houses are pushing up electricity bills by 10-15%. Drought is also raising feed prices, meaning egg prices could rise as well.
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