Potato shortage to hit Australia ahead of Christmas, impacting hot chip availability

A pub staple and takeaway favourite is on the chopping block leading up to Christmas, as potato shortages worsen across Australia.

By now, Aussies are used to, and quite frankly sick of, hearing about product shortages.

The pandemic, conflict in Ukraine, floods and other natural disasters have seen their fair share of food victims, but there’s one recent veggie shortage that is sure to enrage the masses in the lead up to Christmas.

The country’s potato industry is reportedly in crisis as ongoing wet weather threatens crops, leaving little hope for hot chip enthusiasts in the coming months.

Despite the hospitality industry’s ability to replace staples in the past, with cabbage becoming an unlikely hero during the lettuce crisis earlier this year, there is no immediate replacement for the classic French fry alongside a schnitty or burger.

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Victorian Farmers’ Federation vice president Kathryn Myers told the Today show the potato shortage is a “wait and see” situation.

“The challenge is the ongoing wet weather. This is the kind of year where we’ve seen really significant and heavy rainfall in every single potato-growing region,” Ms Myers said.

She said most Victorian regions and Tasmania were struggling the most, with significant crop damage in Queensland and NSW.

“I’m expecting it will be fairly significant,” she said.

She said farms weren’t experiencing any solid periods which would allow the ground to dry, stopping farmers from getting out onto paddocks to put crops in.

Wet weather is impacting potato crops and stock. Picture: Getty

Meteorologists have reportedly predicted a “significant” weather system every two weeks in the lead up to the holiday season.

Due to Europe’s very dry season, they have no stock to replace what we would usually have.

“There‘s going to be a lot of watching and waiting and just opportunistic planting whenever we get the chance,” Ms Meyers said.

It comes after Woolworths Group CEO Brad Banducci revealed the supermarket would be experiencing shortages on holiday favourites in a letter to customers.

“As the La Niña rains continue on the eastern seaboard, we may see a delayed start to the season for some fresh fruit and vegetables, including cherries and stone fruits,” Mr Banducci wrote.

“The poor weather, especially in Tasmania, has also impacted supply of frozen vegetables (such as corn and potatoes) and potato crisps. In good news, mango season is upon us with more supply on the way.”

“We’re working hard to make sure we have enough stock of everything, but please bear with us if you’re currently seeing some gaps.”

Brad Banducci said frozen vegetable supplies are limited. Picture: John Feder/The Australian.

Originally published as Potato shortage to hit Australia ahead of Christmas, impacting hot chip availability