With an abundance of festive favourites running low on UK shelves as we approach Christmas, UK food shortages are becoming increasingly problematic for buyers across the nation and beyond.
What are the Food Shortages Right Now?
Sufficiently functioning supply chains are paramount when it comes ensuring food produce reaches its final destination effectively.
Currently there are a number of food items struggling to make the shelves for one reason or another including:
- Milk – Major dairy brand Arla has had supply chain issues since April earlier this year, with the shortage of HGV drivers post Brexit meaning not as high volumes of milk can be delivered. To combat wastage, companies are sending smaller quantities of milk products, however, this is resulting in there not being high enough levels of stock to meet with consumer demands.
- Turkey and Meat – With an estimated 7,000 job vacancies by the British Poultry Association in the sector, Turkey produce isn’t reaching consumers fast enough due to a lack of workers in various areas of the supply chain. Similarly, this is also happening across abattoirs in the UK with meat products also in short supply. Bodies including the British Meat Processors Association are one of many sending warnings of UK food shortages this Christmas.
- Chocolate – Big brand Nestle, who produce Aero and Quality Street, have warned of confectionery shortages in the run up to Christmas as demands for chocolate products soar and the lack of HGV drivers causes havoc among the UK food supply chain.
Why are There Shortages of Everything in the UK?
The UK’s food shortage is down to a culmination of events and supply chain issues.
Playing a huge role in the supply chain squeeze is the current HGV driver shortage, which has only been exacerbated by the fallout from COVID-19 and the UK’s departure from the EU. With travel restrictions and visa requirements now needed, there has been a significant lack of migrant workers, resulting in a much lower workforce when it comes to picking and packing produce.
Different Stages of the Food Supply Chain
The food supply chain features various steps that vary depending on the nature of the product and/or where it’s going to. By understanding the numerous stages of the food supply chain, we get a greater insight into how food shortages and waste can occur throughout its journey from farm to fork.
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