Experts warn that supermarkets will soon experience more food shortages as weather conditions make it difficult for growers.
As a third La Niña weather system brings heavy downpours and wilder weather, food producers and growers are struggling to keep up with demands.
Foods such as poultry, green leafy vegetables, berries and grains will increase, and the price of dairy products is said to go up as much as 30 percent.
The result of the flow will mean that supermarkets will have to raise their checkout prices, adding to the cost of living crisis.
As global supply chains continue to slow down, inflation and extreme weather events like La Niña are forcing producers to pass on additional costs to supermarkets and, in turn, regular customers.
Ash Salardini, chief economist for the National Federation of Farmers, said farms are experiencing worker shortages in the processing and manufacturing areas.
“If we don’t address food availability and affordability, it’s going to be an issue for 12 to 24 months,” Salardini said.
It seems that the increase has already begun, with the price of oil rising 33 cents, milk 16 cents and margarine another 15 cents.
But with La Niña weather seeing forecasters expect flooding, the price of more produce could skyrocket.
“If we have flooding in the next three to six months or if it rains at the wrong time, for example during harvest, expect to see shortages or price increases,” Salardini said.
Shoppers are encouraged to buy seasonal fruits and vegetables to save money and ensure supply.
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