Food inflation is back on the table as midterms loom

"The Strait of Hormuz ferries about one-fifth of the world's oil and about 25%-35% of fertilizer material. That disruption has already triggered a spike in the price of oil and fertilizer, which could undermine agricultural production, leading to higher prices of groceries and restaurant food."

"Farmers fear losing access to key materials such as urea, ammonia, nitrogen, phosphate, and sulfur-based products. Shortages could come just as the all-important spring planting season is about to begin."

"Fertilizer's not an option to farmers - it's a critical input that determines the crop yield and ultimately the food supply for the American people. It's not just a farm issue - it's a food security issue and an economic issue for the entire country."

Geopolitical instability affecting the Strait of Hormuz threatens to disrupt fertilizer and oil supplies critical to global agriculture. The strait transports approximately one-fifth of world oil and 25-35% of fertilizer materials. Gulf states produce nearly 49% of global urea and 30% of ammonia, while the U.S. imports 97% of its potassium, 18% of nitrogen, and 13% of phosphate from foreign sources. Supply chain disruptions coinciding with spring planting season could drive fertilizer prices higher, reducing crop yields and increasing food costs. Agricultural leaders warn this poses risks to food security and the broader economy.

Read at Axios