‘No need for immediate panic’ amid warnings Middle East conflict could impact food supply

Leaked government contingency plans have suggested Co2 shortages could impact food supplies this summer, if the conflict in the Middle East continues.

However, hospitality businesses have been told “there is no need for operational panic”, with procurement specialist Prestige Purchasing urging operators to “remain grounded”.

The Times reported that officials have drawn up contingency plans amid concerns the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to carbon dioxide shortages.

The gas is used in food preservation and in the slaughter of some livestock, particularly pigs and poultry. It is also used by breweries and other drinks manufacturers.

Worst-case scenario forecasts suggest the public could see a lack of product variety in shops, according to The Times.

Stuart Read, head of marketing at Prestige Purchasing, said: “While it is essential for the government to focus on high-level strategic planning for these ‘worst-case’ scenarios, it is equally important for the hospitality industry to remain grounded.

“These models are designed to ensure national resilience, not to serve as a forecast of immediate shortages. At present, there is no need for operational panic.”

Business secretary Peter Kyle has also sought to reassure the public. He told Sky News there was no need for concern “for this moment in time”. He added: “Right now people should go on as they are.”

Read suggested operators should give immediate attention to the impact of inflationary pressures on production costs as a result of higher fuel and fertiliser costs.

He said salad, milk and other core crops could be among those to see price adjustments in the next three to six months.