Downpours in Spain, Morocco leading to empty fresh produce shelves in Dutch supermarkets

Heavy rainfall in Spain and Morocco is causing some stocking issues for Dutch supermarkets this week. Strawberries, legumes, and tomatoes, among other fresh produce, are less available than usual, and consumers may encounter empty shelves, the Telegraaf reports.

The Albert Heijn in Hilversum hung a sign near the shelf where blueberries, raspberries, and grapes are usually found. “Due to poor weather conditions in Spain and Morocco, you will find less well-stocked shelves than you’re used to,” it reads. A spokesperson added that availability varies, but shortages primarily include legumes, soft fruits like berries, various herbs, and tomatoes.

Southern Europe, where the Netherlands sources a lot of its fresh fruit and vegetables at this time of year, has been dealing with heavy rainfall and bad weather for weeks now.

“Rain can sometimes completely destroy a product, or it can be difficult to harvest because the orchards are flooded, like with avocados, for example,” Cindy van Rijswick, a global strategist for fruits, vegetables, and horticulture at Rabobank, told the newspaper. The constant rain also means cooler temperatures and less sunshine, so fruits and vegetables are taking longer to ripen.

“We’ll notice later in the year, if there are shortages now, prices will rise,” Van Rijwick said. Nature simply can’t be controlled.

Last year, the Netherlands didn’t have to deal with any empty shelves for the first time in years. According to Va Rijswick, that was actually exceptional, and consumers should get used to the fact that not everything is always readily available.

Last year can be considered an “isolated incident,” she said. “Because we’re seeing more and more extreme weather due to climate change.