There's a mustard seed shortage due to low yield on the Prairies
And just in time for BBQ season.
Earlier this summer, we told you about a sriracha shortage due to adverse weather in California.
Now, another favourite condiment is under threat.
We turn our attention to the Canadian Prairies, where many of the world’s mustard seeds are grown.
Severe summer drought – coupled with a decrease in the number of crop acres planted last year in Saskatchewan and Alberta, have resulted in a yield that’s only 35 per cent of the 10-year average, the Canadian Press (CP) reports.
France is already facing shortages, and elsewhere mustard prices are starting to climb.
Some store shelves could struggle to stay stocked through the summer, but there is hope: Industry experts say a new harvest will hit the market in the fall.
And here's another silver lining: Some major players in the condiment industry, like the makers of Heinz and French's mustards, made alternate arrangements when they first caught wind of a potential issue, cutting deals with suppliers in other parts of the world to compensate for the Canadian shortage.
Retail Council of Canada spokesperson Michelle Wasylyshen told CP spokesperson probably won't have to worry about mustard availability, but "there may be times when consumers will have to look for alternatives and substitutions."
Canada is one of the world's top mustard seed producers, with most seeds grown in Alberta, followed by Saskatchewan.
Canada's unique northern climate makes it a prime spot for cultivating mustard, which is a cool-season crop that tolerates a short growing season.
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