Extreme weather continues to affect annual harvests in the United States. In the Pacific Northwest, a deep freeze has impacted pear crops, which will soon be evident in stores. Washington and Oregon, producing 87% of the nation's pears, have seen a drastic drop this year. The estimated 10.6 million boxes of pears represent a 31% decline from the five-year average, mainly due to freeze damage in northern regions.
Despite available pears, frost damage has caused a brown ring or russet. Experts note this can impact sales. Jon DeVaney, president of the Washington State Tree Fruit Association, stated, "If it was not going to look attractive in the store, [the fruit] would either not sell at all, or sell at such a discount that growers couldn't pay to harvest it."
This decline is not isolated. Farmers globally face challenges adapting to environmental changes, risking food supply. This may lead to less produce, higher prices, and the loss of products made with such produce. For instance, European winemakers are migrating north to avoid losing their products.
Efforts are underway to address these agricultural challenges. Researchers are editing drought-resisting genes found in pears to enhance resilience in other crops. Additionally, advances in vertical farming may improve efficiency and increase food production.
Source: TCD