Parmesan producers in Italy are warning that more frequent heatwaves are threatening the centuries-old Parmigiano Reggiano cheese industry.

Reductions in milk production of up to 30% have been seen in some Italian regions as extreme heat causes severe stress to dairy cows, according to Coldiretti.

Extreme temperatures not only reduce milk yields but also degrade its quality, which is critically important for the traditional parmesan recipe.

Vegetable growers in France have also reported “catastrophic” losses and warned of major shortages ahead, after three major heatwaves in the country.

Thousands of tonnes of garlic, onions, shallots, leeks, lettuce and carrots have been lost to date.

If the current heatwaves across Europe continue, The Dealer worries that there will be no Parmesan left for Saturday night spaghetti bolognese.