France May Have to Increase The Price of Baguettes

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French pastries and bread are well-known worldwide. The baguette and croissant stand out in particular. Currently, the latter is under pressure. Many bakers are being forced to close their bakeries or increase baguette pricing due to rising costs. Many people working in the baguette-making industry are struggling financially due to rising energy prices and problems with the availability of wheat brought on by the conflict in Ukraine. Julien Pedussel, a 36-year-old baker, expressed concern for his livelihood. He could have to increase the price of his baguettes from one to four euros. He is concerned about the fact that large shops are still offering baguettes for less than one euro, saying to reporters: "I cannot pay an electricity bill of 12,000 euros with a turnover of 20,000 euros."

The humble baguette is listed as an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations. France's President Macron has stepped in to address the issue of rising baguette pricing. In a recent statement, he said that the bread was "250 grams of magic and perfection." An "electricity damper" has been implemented by France's Ministry of the Economy. Bakers will be able to control how much their electricity costs increase because of this. Consumers must make difficult decisions, according to the government, which said that "Aid for Bakers has been reinforced and eligible bakeries can benefit from it." She said that she might have to start baking them herself. One complained: "I won't pay three euros because it's double the price. Maybe, sometimes I would because there is no equivalent to a baguette."