The Russian Invasion Could Affect Our Future Food Prices

Russia is 55,500 miles from here --- but it could still affect American farming and that affects American eating. Dr. Calvin Trostle is a plant and soil expert with Texas A&M. "Russia is the world's largest manufacture and exporter of nitrogen fertilizers. So now with all of the sanctions, that export market is going to be curtailed." Fertilizer is a major component of farming. "Farmers in far South Texas, Our Texas Gulf Coast Region and even parts of Central Texas have already started planting. Some of them are going to have to decide about future fertilizer use."

Inflation is Hitting Farmers Hard

The price of natural gas is up and that's is affecting Texas farmers as well. Dr. Trostle explains. "Historically, when natural gas prices go up - fertilizer prices will go up." Add to that the U.S. sanctions against Russia. Now farmers are likely to plant less corn and use less fertilizer on their fields for next year's growing season. Fertilizer shortages could mean higher food costs. We may see higher prices for corn, soybean, & wheat harvests. Dr. Trostle, however, says Texas farmers are optimistic. "There's the hope that maybe some of these price issues might abate some before these Texas farmers have to pay the bill on these fertilizers.

Another planting is scheduled from May to the end of June.

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