Freak weather conditions in Israel have hit Agrexco’s strawberry crop right in the middle of the peak season.

Following a year of exceptionally good growing conditions the weather, which has seen temperatures hit below freezing in some areas, is a major set back to the company.

Agrexco said that while supplies were good in week 51, there would be a major shortage in week 52.

Amos Orr, UK general manager for the company, said: “You can put in all the safeguards you think you need, but Mother Nature can still come out on top.

“We had several nights of frost where temperatures dropped below zero so the colour did not develop. We have continued to supply, but our programmes have been down 25 to 50 per cent depending on variety and region.

“Although this week will be badly affected things are starting to improve. We are very sorry to have let down our customers at such a key trading time.”

While the weather has to some extent also affected other crops, he added, the majority of product from Israel is as normal.

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