Supply Chain Issues Are Back—Here Are the Foods Disappearing First

Empty shelves may feel like a thing of the past, but supply chain problems are making a comeback. From weather disruptions to global shipping delays, certain foods are already harder to find—and prices are climbing. For shoppers, that means stocking up on seasonal staples might not be as simple as it used to be. We’ve rounded up the foods most at risk of disappearing first so you’ll know what to grab before they’re gone.

Chicken Wings

Chicken wings, a staple of American comfort food, are often bought in bulk for events like Super Bowl parties and barbecues. Their popularity comes from their versatility, as they can be prepared in a myriad of ways, from Buffalo hot wings to honey garlic. Due to their widespread appeal, chicken wings are commonly stored in large quantities in homes and restaurants alike.

The reason why chicken wings matter now is due to the supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19. Poultry producers are struggling to keep up with demand, driving up prices and leading to shortages. This impact on affordability and availability is a trend being observed in various parts of the country. You can read more about this issue on CNN.

Canned Soups

Canned soups are a household staple due to their long shelf life and convenience. They’re often used as a quick meal solution or as an ingredient in more complex dishes. Despite being potentially overlooked due to their simplicity, canned soups are consistently purchased due to their versatility and storability.

These pantry staples are now facing shortages due to increased demand from consumers stocking up for potential lockdowns. This trend, coupled with supply chain issues, has led to decreased availability and increased prices. Experts from Eater provide a deeper insight into this issue.

Frozen Pizzas

Frozen pizzas are a popular choice for many households due to their convenience and taste. They are often bought in bulk and stored for those times when cooking is not an option. Despite the availability of fresh pizza, frozen options continue to hold their ground in the market.

Now, the frozen pizza market is experiencing unprecedented demand due to stay-at-home orders, leading to potential shortages. This increased demand, coupled with supply chain disruptions, is causing an unexpected strain on the market. More details can be found in this report by Chicago Tribune.

Ground Beef

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient used in a variety of dishes, from burgers to tacos. It is often bought in large quantities and frozen for future use. Despite the availability of other meat options, ground beef remains a popular choice due to its affordability and flexibility in cooking.

However, the meat industry is currently facing disruptions due to COVID-19, leading to potential shortages of ground beef. This, coupled with increased demand, is causing a spike in prices. For more information on this trend, refer to this article by USA Today.

Instant Noodles

Instant noodles are a beloved food item in many households due to their affordability, long shelf life, and convenience. They are often overlooked but are a common purchase for many individuals, especially college students and those looking for a quick meal.

With the ongoing shift to stockpiling long-lasting food items due to the pandemic, instant noodles are facing a surge in demand, leading to potential shortages. For a deeper understanding of this trend, refer to this report by BBC.

Flour

Flour is a baking essential and is often bought in large quantities for home baking projects. Despite being a basic ingredient, it is often overlooked until there is a need for baking or cooking.

Now, due to a rise in home baking during lockdowns and supply chain issues, there is a significant increase in demand for flour. This has led to shortages and higher prices. You can learn more about this trend in this NPR article.

Yeast

Yeast is essential for many baking recipes and is often bought in bulk, especially by avid home bakers. Despite its importance, it is often overlooked unless there is a need for it.

The demand for yeast has surged due to an increase in home baking during pandemic lockdowns. This, along with supply chain issues, has led to potential shortages and increased prices. For more information on this issue, refer to this article by The New York Times.

Sugar

Sugar is a staple in most households due to its frequent use in cooking and baking. Despite being a common ingredient, it is often overlooked until it runs out.

However, with the rise in home cooking and baking during the pandemic, there is an increased demand for sugar. This, along with supply chain disruptions, has led to potential shortages and increased prices. For more information, refer to this report by Reuters.

Rice

Rice is a staple food in many cultures and is often bought in bulk due to its long shelf life. Despite its common use, it is often overlooked until there’s a need for it.

The current situation, with supply chain disruptions and increased demand due to the pandemic, has led to potential shortages of rice. This trend is causing a significant increase in prices. For more details, refer to this report by BBC.

Pasta

Pasta is a staple food in many households due to its versatility and long shelf life. It’s often bought in bulk and used in a variety of dishes, making it a common purchase for many individuals.

However, due to supply chain disruptions and an increase in demand due to potential lockdowns, pasta is facing potential shortages. This trend is causing a significant increase in prices. For more information, refer to this article by The Guardian.