The shortage has led some cafes and restaurants to temporarily substitute the deep-fried favourite with sweet potato, their own hand-cut potatoes or to take hot chips off the menu altogether, while one major supermarket has introduced limits on the number of bags customers can buy.
Berala Kebabs admit there has been a big increase in the cost of potatoes as well as availability challenges.
“We are still able to get frozen chips but have had to increase the cost slightly; we’re hoping it improves soon,” owner Jason said.
Likewise for Zag Seafood in Merrylands, frozen chips are costing more but so far they have resisted passing on the increase to customers.
“It is becoming more difficult but we hope the situation eases soon.”
Coles, however, has confirmed a buying limit on frozen potato products has been introduced to combat shortages.
“Due to supply issues of frozen potato chips, we have introduced a temporary purchase limit of two items per transaction but fresh spuds are not affected.”
Woolworths is also suffering potato product pricing and availability issues.
“We’re pleased to say, though, we don’t have any product limits on frozen chips or packet chips,” a spokesperson said.
McDonalds is still serving up the full menu to customers.
“McDonald’s has been proudly supporting Aussie farmers for more than 50 years and we have an extensive supply chain,” a spokesperson said.
Sydney Markets wholesaler/grower Ray Khoury said: “All the potato varieties you normally expect to see are still available at your local greengrocer but at the moment, whatever potatoes are growing are yielding 50 percent less.”
