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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Emily Beament

Food shortage fears as UK farmers warn of worst harvest on record after hot, dry summer

British farmers are facing a "completely brutal" year, with analysis suggesting the 2026 harvest could be the worst on record due to extreme summer weather.

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) estimates that the exceptionally hot and dry spring and summer conditions have slashed the country’s cereals and oilseed harvest by 2.5 million tonnes compared to earlier projections, potentially costing UK farmers up to £390 million.

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