Summer is the best time for tomatoes with them being in season from late May to October but shoppers expect them to appear on shelves all year round thanks to importation and the use of greenhouses.

A huge tomato producer has warned that the cost of tomatoes could rise in the near future.

Mutti, an Italian brand that produces tomatoes, sauces, and purées, has said the cost of the fruit could rise after the peak harvest period.

Why could tomatoes become more expensive to buy?

The brand has said the cost of tomatoes could rise due to the continuing conflict in Iran.

Energy expenses are around 50% higher than expected with the cost of oil and gas rising.

Mutti has been able to avoid raising the prices of its products but has warned the harvest between July and September “would prove critical in determining what happens next”.

Chief Executive Francesco Mutti mentioned how the business uses three quarters of its annual energy bill during the peak European tomato season, according to the Grocery Gazette.

He went on to add how the company would have to reassess after the harvest has finished with possibly price increases being introduced at the end of the season.

He said: “There, depending on the level, we will have to take the decision about what our position will be on the market.”

He added how the quality of the Italian tomato harvest would be key in deciding whether prices go up.

The crop currently looks good, according to Mutti, but the weather conditions could cause this to change.

The brand processed more than 700,000 tonnes of tomatoes last year and exports its products around the world including to the UK, US, and Australia.

The tins of Mutti Polpa chopped tomatoes are currently being sold for £1.60.

Are you worried about the cost of tomatoes rising? Let us know in the comments below.

Courtesy of Harrow Times | Local News