Where are all the tomatoes?

Shoppers are facing a national tomato shortage as growers confront increasing energy costs.

Supermarkets across the country are unable to source the popular fruit as tomato growers struggle to afford to heat greenhouses because of the increase in gas prices.

UK tomato production is reliant on greenhouses being heated to 20C, but with energy costs continuing to rise, tomato farmers ae having to reduce or delay planting, leading to a shortage.

National Farming Union president Minette Batters warned that "we're seeing the lowest levels of tomatoes and cucumbers produced since records began in 1985."

Continental growers are also facing problems, with Morocco suffering  flooding and cold temperatures. SupplIes from Spain have also been impacted by poor weather, with stocks from Almeria down 22%.

Local supermarkets are seeing empty shelves, with Sainsbury and Tesco both out of stock of all varieties, whilst Aldi and M&S Food are suffering restricted supplies.