A TAUNTON fish and chip shop owner has said the increase in the cost of sunflower oil will be “worse than the pandemic” for his business.

Due to the war in Ukraine, which is the world’s largest producer of the key ingredient, prices have shot up and local chippies have been left feeling the pinch.

An industry boss has warned that one in three restaurants could close because of the higher prices.

Andrew Crook, the president of the National Federation of Fish Friers told The i news website that "there will definitely be closures" and that it is "the biggest crisis we’ve ever faced".

The owners of two Taunton shops, Smiley’s Plaice on East Reach and Howards Fish and Chips on St James Street, told the County Gazette how the issues are impacting their businesses.

Somerset County Gazette:
Smiley's Plaice on East Reach, Taunton

Cagdas Yalcin, owner of Smiley’s Plaice, said: “Sunflower oil is very expensive at the moment, the price is nearly doubled.

“Gas prices are also going up and we use a lot of gas as well.

“I think we are a bit quieter as well now because household bills have gone up and people have less money to spend.

“The pandemic cost us a lot of money, but I think this will be worse.”

Steve Gibbs, owner of Howards, said prices have gone up but that he is less concerned about the potential impact.

He said: “Prices have gone up a lot. We use seven boxes of 12.5kg every week.

“Personally, I think prices will stay the same now, there won’t be much of an increase going forward. That’s my opinion, but you never know.”

Mr Gibbs added that he “can’t see the issue affecting the business as much”.