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Fertiliser boss says Iran war puts 10 billion meals a week at risk
The head of a major fertiliser producer warns that disruptions to fertiliser supply caused by the war in Iran could put as many as 10 billion meals at risk weekly. He also says not applying nitrogen fertiliser could halve yields for some crops in the first season and warns of a potential food bidding war between rich and poor nations.
Why It Matters
If borne out, the disruption could affect global food affordability and exacerbate hunger in developing countries, while pressures on European food costs may rise.
Timeline
1 Event
Fertiliser boss warns Iran war may put 10 billion meals weekly at risk
April 30, 2026
Holsether, the head of one of the world’s largest fertiliser producers, said that interruptions to fertiliser supplies and its key ingredients due to the war in Iran could mean up to 10 billion meals would not be produced each week. He warned that not applying nitrogen fertiliser could reduce yields for some crops by as much as 50% in the first season. He noted an approximate 80% rise in fertiliser prices since the start of the US–Israel war on Iran and warned that a continuation of the conflict could trigger a bidding war for food between richer and poorer nations. He urged European nations to consider the impact on the most vulnerable in other countries, and noted the UK is unlikely to face shortages but would see higher weekly food bills; the Food and Drink Federation forecast food inflation could reach 10% by year-end.