It's bad news if you like your meals spicy, because the producer of Sriracha Chilli Sauce has confirmed there's a shortage of the much-loved condiment.
Whether it's through increased availability or simply more frequent appearances on social media, the green-topped sauce appears to have grown in popularity over the last few years, so much so that now it's a common part of the household for many people.
Fans of the hot sauce can mix it in to a stir fry, sprinkle it on scrambled eggs or squeeze it on burritos, with each new pairing proving it can be just as versatile as some of the more classic sauces you might find in the condiment section.
Unfortunately, however, foodies might have to scale back on the amount of Sriracha they're using on each meal as Huy Fong Inc., one of the world's largest producers in the Asian hot sauce market, has confirmed an 'unprecedented shortage of [its] products'.
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In a statement cited by CNN, the company continued: "We are still endeavouring to resolve this issue that has be caused by several spiralling events, including unexpected crop failure from the spring chili harvest."
The supply of chili peppers has been short since early on in the coronavirus pandemic, but things took a turn for the worse when severe weather conditions began affecting the quality of the vegetables.
The situation is 'out of [Huy Fong Inc's] control', the company said in a letter sent to distributors in April, explaining the shortage would impact the making and selling of its signature Sriracha hot sauce as well as its Chili Garlic and Sambal Oelek products.
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As a result of the shortage, Huy Fong Inc. made the decision to refuse any new orders placed before September. Meanwhile, any orders already made before 6 September are set to be fulfilled in autumn, as the company currently does not have the inventory to meet demand.
The company has recommended distributors avoid promising any products to customers 'unless you have the product in stock', adding: "We hope for a fruitful fall season and thank our customers for their patience and continued support during this difficult time."
Needless to say, news of the shortage has sparked fear among those who like to add a bit of heat to their meals, with some even going as far to stock up on Sriracha to avoid going without - a decision which has not been taken lightly by the more considerate people on the internet.
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Hopefully there will be a fruitful season for the chilis soon enough, but until then customers might have to try and find another way to tantalise their tastebuds.
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Topics: Food and Drink, Viral, World News