The anomalous heatwave in the UK threatens the barley harvest and beer production

Lisa Hogan, manager of the Diddly Squat farm in Oxfordshire along with Jeremy Clarkson, has warned of the risks of a serious beer shortage in the UK due to the extreme temperatures of the past four months. According to her, low yields threaten not only the volumes but also the quality of the beverage produced. Suppliers will find it difficult to meet demand, which could drive prices up. At the same time, it will not be possible to compensate for the shortage through grain supplies from Poland, and producers will have to incur additional expenses.

According to data from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), the total harvest in the UK has fallen to one of the lowest levels in history — just over 19 million tonnes compared to nearly 26 million tonnes in 2022. Monthly figures were 19% below the five-year average. The situation is exacerbated by water scarcity: summer droughts forced farmers to struggle for land irrigation, which affected the production of barley, necessary for obtaining malt — a key ingredient for brewing, malting, and distillation (the British industry uses about 1.7 million tonnes of barley annually).

The Diddly Squat farm has also faced problems due to drought: last month, Jeremy Clarkson reported on social media that the harvest was damaged by the scorching sun at temperatures up to 29C (84F). Earlier this season, he left 200 acres of land un-sown, as growing wheat or barley guaranteed financial losses, and called it impossible to turn a profit from food production. At the same time, the farm supports government plans to simplify the construction of water reservoirs, which will help cope with prolonged drought.

In addition, a theft occurred at the Diddly Squat farm this month: 11 Exmoor Horn sheep (out of a flock of 27) disappeared from a remote field. Jeremy Clarkson reported the theft to the police of the livestock animals, whose market value exceeds £2,000, with the meat lambs reaching a value of £8,000. The incident is being investigated by law enforcement agencies.