Fruit and vegetable shortage could last until May, say growers

A shortage of some fruit and vegetables could last until May, according to producers in one of the UK’s biggest growing regions.

The Lea Valley Growers Association said major UK growers were delaying planting some crops due to high energy costs.

Major UK supermarkets have been placing limits on fruit and vegetable sales after shortages.

The government and industry have blamed bad weather in Spain and North Africa for the squeeze.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the UK’s supply chain was “highly resilient” and “well-equipped” to deal with…