Barley, a staple cereal grain with ancient roots
The UK faces renewed food-security concerns as heatwaves and drought push down cereal and oilseed harvests. Experts warn of higher prices and greater reliance on imports, with farmers cutting yields and livestock costs rising. Officials say the situation is likely to worsen into the autumn and into next year.
The government has announced new measures to help farmers manage drought, including a £65m fund for on-farm reservoirs and a raised Sustainable Farming Incentive budget. The move aims to ease water shortages, support livestock feeding, and back environmental work as hot, dry conditions persist.
Global grain markets have tightened as attacks on Black Sea grain terminals persist and port disruptions limit exports from Russia and Ukraine. Futures have risen, and importers like Egypt and Indonesia are scrambling to secure supplies amid higher costs.