There were signs that things were getting back to normal before the pandemic, but now fall 2023 looks a lot like fall 2020, which means grocery stores will have trouble getting enough supplies. The food shortages this time are spread out across the store, so shoppers who want to get certain items may find it hard to do so right now. “It’s spotty; it’s not a widespread problem,” says Katie Denis, vice president of research for the Consumer Brands Association. The association represents companies like General Mills and Kellogg in the consumer packaged goods industry. “This isn’t like the start of the pandemic, when people rushed to clear shelves and stockpile things out of fear.” ” Still, there are specific aisles feeling the strain right now. Here are products to look for during your next grocery run.
As a lover of hearty, flavorful meats, I was disappointed when I went to stock up on corned beef for St. Patrick’s Day and came up empty-handed. The grocery store shelves, usually lined with this iconic salt-cured beef, were completely barren. I started asking around to get the scoop on the apparent corned beef shortage plaguing markets and restaurants as the holiday approaches. Here’s what I found out.
Corned Beef Demand Spikes Around St. Patrick’s Day
Corned beef and cabbage is a dish synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day, especially here in America. Irish immigrants substituted corned beef for bacon or other pork products typically used in Ireland since beef was more accessible and affordable here. Ever since, we’ve attached this cured brisket to March 17th revelry.
As you’d expect demand for corned beef surges in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Orders start flooding into suppliers 6-8 weeks in advance. Restaurants prominently feature Reubens and other corned beef specials. And grocery stores stock up to appease shoppers preparing for celebrations.
Supply Chain Disruptions Lead to Shortages
Increased demand would normally just mean larger shipments from beef processing plants to meet needs. However, ongoing supply chain disruptions have led to shortages this year.
Supply issues plaguing the food industry include:
- Labor shortages at beef processing facilities, limiting production
- Rising fuel costs impacting transportation from facilities to distributors
- Congestion at ports causing shipping delays
- Lack of trucks, drivers, and warehouses to move and store inventory
- High beef prices prompting some distributors to shift purchases to lower-cost proteins
These factors combine to cripple efforts to increase corned beef supplies for the St. Patrick’s Day rush
Tighter Inventories Lead to Production Squeezes
To produce corned beef, suppliers need three key ingredients:
- Fresh beef briskets
- Curing salt mixtures
- Spices
With tight supplies and rising prices for fresh beef cuts, some corned beef companies are producing less or have slimmer inventory cushions. Spice and curing salt suppliers also face production and shipping constraints.
The corned beef makers still operating are running full-tilt to churn out as much as they possibly can. But it’s still not enough to satisfy the hungry hordes come March.
What Does the Corned Beef Shortage Mean for Shoppers and Diners?
The corned beef shortage leaves retailers and restaurants in a pickle for St. Patrick’s Day. With limited quantities available, consumers should expect to see:
- Higher prices – With tight supplies, you’ll pay more per pound.
- Leaner selections – Prime-cut brisket flats may not make the cut. Expect point cuts or round.
- Limits per customer – Retailers may cap purchase quantities.
- Menu changes – Restaurants will likely swap corned beef for pastrami, roast beef, or other proteins.
- Shortages before the holiday – Stores could sell out completely before March 17th.
My advice to readers? If you plan to enjoy corned beef this St. Patrick’s Day, shop early and prepare to pay more. A lean or grass-fed cut may be your best bet for avoiding sticker shock. Otherwise, keep an open mind about pivoting your party, stew, or sandwiches to deli meat alternatives. And savor every salty, beefy bite of corned beef you manage to land!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Corned Beef Shortage
Here are answers to some common questions about this year’s corned beef supply issues:
Q: Will the shortage last beyond St. Patrick’s Day?
A: It’s likely the supply crunch will continue for a few weeks post-holiday when demand drops off. But suppliers should catch up after the initial rush.
Q: Are major chains affected?
A: Yes, large grocery store chains face the same shortages as small retailers. Many are limiting purchase quantities.
Q: Should I hoard corned beef when I find it?
A: Please don’t overbuy. Hoarding worsens shortages. Get what you need for March 17th and leave the rest for your fellow shoppers.
Q: What meats work well instead of corned beef?
A: Pastrami, roast beef, turkey, ham, and other deli meats make tasty alternatives. Or opt for classic Irish bacon or lamb stew.
Q: Will this affect Irish imports?
A: Domestically-produced corned beef makes up the majority of US supply. But imports from Ireland may see shipping delays.
Here’s hoping this St. Patrick’s Day we can enjoy a pint and a hearty feast, even if corned beef dishes are in short supply. With a little luck o’ the Irish, next year the corked beef will be back in full force! Sláinte!
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