Britain is experiencing a shortage of certain types of fruits and vegetables, prompting several stores to limit the quantities of fruit and vegetables, particularly tomatoes and bell peppers, that customers can purchase. To address this shortage, the British Environment Minister urged citizens to eat turnips, which sparked sarcastic comments. To ensure agricultural products are available to everyone and to overcome the supply problem, several stores have implemented purchase limits on fruits and vegetables.
The supply issue is attributed to adverse weather conditions in Southern Europe and North Africa, according to the National Farmers' Union. Environment Minister Therese Coffey announced in parliament that this problem could last "two to four weeks." Conservative MP Selena Saxby commented, "Stores continue to import many products... we should consume more seasonal produce and support British farmers." Coffey responded, "It is important that we value the products that our country is known for producing... A large number of Britons are eating turnips at the moment instead of thinking about lettuce or tomatoes or any similar vegetables." She continued, "However, I understand that consumers want options that can be relied on year-round."
After the minister's statement received a lot of reactions, a spokesperson for the British government indicated that Coffey wanted "to value what is produced in the United Kingdom, but ultimately, the choice is up to the British people regarding the foods they wish to purchase." The spokesperson emphasized that the shortage of vegetables and fruits is not a result of Britain's exit from the European Union.
