La Rioja bread consumption drops by over 20 percent

Bread consumption in the Argentine province of La Rioja has declined by between 18 and 21 percent, according to Oscar Carrizo, president of the Chamber of Bakery Industrials of La Rioja. Carrizo attributed this downturn to a loss of purchasing power among the population, noting that while bread remains a staple of the basic food basket, consumers are adjusting their daily budgets.

The sector faces additional challenges due to seasonal trends. During the summer months, high temperatures typically cause production and consumption to drop by approximately 40 percent. To mitigate losses from unsold goods, many bakeries are restructuring their operations by producing cakes and doughs only upon request.

Regarding pricing, the Chamber has suggested reference values of 2,700 pesos per kilo for French bread. For the upcoming holiday season, projected costs for pan dulce range from 6,000 pesos for basic versions to 30,000 pesos for specialty options. Currently, the industry is not considering price increases due to the approaching low season.