Carbon dioxide shortage in Europe means brewers may start cutting output
London — Breweries across northern Europe are fretting about shortages of beer, slaughterhouses could risk having to shut down and UK consumers may find it harder to buy a popular breakfast food. And it is all because of a shortage of carbon dioxide on the continent. The gas, which gives soda its fizz and is used to package food and even stun pigs before slaughter, is in short supply due to a high number of closures at ammonia plants that produce carbon dioxide. That’s putting pressure on food and drink industries just as warm weather, soccer’s World Cup and the holiday season typically boost demand for fizzy drinks, beer and barbecue meat. "There is a serious concern that consumers may face a limited choice of food and drink on supermarket shelves if a normal supply of carbon dioxide is not restored as quickly as possible," said Ian Wright, CEO of the UK’s Food and Drink Federation. Carbon dioxide, often associated with global warming, is a byproduct of ammonia produced by the fert...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.