Australian fruits and vegetables are currently strong indicators of rising cost of living.
Last week it was lettuce that stung buyers on the way out, this week it’s the berries.
Farmers across the country say they are also making it difficult with the fault of recent record rains.
Strawberries are the latest commodity to impact consumers. (9 News)
“Every weekend since January, Christmas has only kept the paddocks too wet to go out and plow,” said Queensland farmer Butch Guinea.
Guinea spent the morning at the Cararra markets on the Gold Coast where prices have fallen, but only slightly.
“A lady came in and bought three buns before, and I said you know the price of these things. And she said yes, it’s cheap, isn’t it? And I thought, dear sir, it’s bad when people are happy with the prices. in that, “he said.
Rachel McKenzie of Berries Australia said the impacts are having an effect.
“Not having their income in early May or early June is really problematic for them and flows to the consumer,” he said.
In addition to the climate, the ongoing conflict that Russia has caused in Ukraine is increasing the costs of farmers.
Ukraine is a key source of fertilizer ingredients, while Russia is the world’s largest exporter.
“You never know if you’re going to make money or lose money,” said Queensland farmer Kevin Gilbert.