An industry group has warned of carbon dioxide (CO2) shortage in the UK within the week due to a sharp rise in gas prices that could result in meat supply issues.
The gas price hie has forced domestic energy suppliers out of business and shut many fertilizer plants that produce CO2 as a by-product.
According to the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA), the food and drink manufacturing businesses can grind to a halt without an adequate supply of CO2 gas, which plays a critical and irreplaceable role in their processes.
CO2 is used in various food and drink processes, including to stun animals before slaughter, vacuum-pack products to increase shelf life, add fizz into alcoholic and carbonated soft drinks, and as dry ice in food deliveries.
BPMA CEO Nick Allen said that as they are struggling to keep their plants running, it impacts how they keep the food supply chains running.
Alen added that the real impact could be felt on the food shelves within two weeks.
