Global food prices have reached their highest levels in more than three years, with the United Nations' food-commodity index rising 1.6% in April. This increase is primarily driven by disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran war, which has effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for essential farm inputs like diesel and fertilizers. The index reflects a 2.5% increase compared to the previous year, indicating a potential rise in food inflation for consumers. Vegetable oils led the increase, surging 5.9% from March, attributed to rising oil prices and heightened demand for biofuels. The meat index also hit a record high, climbing 1.2% from the previous month. Additionally, the cereal price index rose 0.8% due to weather concerns and expectations of reduced wheat plantings in 2026, as farmers opt for less fertilizer-intensive crops amid escalating input costs. European producers, particularly in France and Romania, have reported lower output as they reduce corn sowing in response to these challenges.