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Iran Conflict Drives Fertilizer Costs Up 50%, Food Crunch

5/9/2026

24 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Steve McClain, director of the Kentucky Retail Federation, said the war in Iran is disrupting the food supply chain.
He reported fertilizer costs have risen nearly 50%, forcing planting changes.
He added high diesel fuel prices pressure farms, while aluminum shortages limit packaging and paper alternatives risk faster spoilage.
He noted rising beef prices push shoppers to cheaper proteins, and that costs are steady but shortages stay uncertain.

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Story summary

Steve McClain, director of the Kentucky Retail Federation, said the war in Iran is disrupting the food supply chain.
He reported fertilizer costs have risen nearly 50%, forcing planting changes.
He added high diesel fuel prices pressure farms, while aluminum shortages limit packaging and paper alternatives risk faster spoilage.
He noted rising beef prices push shoppers to cheaper proteins, and that costs are steady but shortages stay uncertain.