“Close like an oyster”. The expression takes on its full meaning when you want to know more about the prized bivalve of gourmets. Oyster farmers, who must compose with the whims of the diva seafood platforms, often sail on sight. And learn to burst between the pitfalls. Thus, this summer, the oysters found themselves enclosed, weighed down by a vague growth surf.
“The period of summer drought has had an impact on development. If there is no supply of mineral salts, there is less phytoplankton, and therefore less food for oysters”, explains The president of the National Conchylical Committee, Philippe Le Gal, himself installed in Morbihan. It figures the loss to 10 % or 15 % of volumes, on an annual national production estimated between 100,000 and 120,000 tonnes.
A reflux finally limited by a sudden change of foot of the bivalve. “In early December, when the professionals noted their parks, they were surprised to find a catch -up of the sizes, says Philippe Le Gal. It took place during the fall. These are the puzzles of nature.” What Turn the oyster farm into a nesting…
Inflation vague
Relief, therefore, on oyster parks. All calibers are ready to land on the holiday tables. Even if the French always acclaim the number 3 and make the mouth in front of the larger and fleshy oysters. It remains to be seen whether or not they will have sea urchins in the wallet. Large distribution seems to fear taking a broth in the tide department, in this period of tension on the purchasing power of the French.
“The pre-orders of distributors are down 15 % to 20 %,” said Laurent Chiron, president of the Marennes-Oléron oyster quality group. Philippe Le Gal even discusses a withdrawal of 20 % to 30 %, without being able to explain the phenomenon. Mystery and pearl of gum. Unsurprisingly, the oysters have not escaped the wave of inflation which sweeps on the linear food. With an average of 7 % at the national level, and 15 % for the Marennes-Oléron.
“The kilo of Fines de Claire is marketed at the time of shipping at 5.75 euros, against 5 euros in 2021”, specifies Laurent Chiron. It praises the quality of production under the Marennes-Oléron label, or 19,000 tonnes, the only one today to benefit from a protected geographic indication (IGP). But she will soon have to share this asset with the Norman oyster, also ready to win her IGP.
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