(ZEROHEDGE) – Ketchup packets are the next COVID-19-related nationwide shortage. America's most popular condiment, ketchup packets, are in short supply at restaurants across the country, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The shortage materialized over the last year as public health orders forced restaurants to close or limit indoor dining, which resulted in a boom in takeout orders. There were also health and safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that advised restaurants to "avoid using or sharing items that are reusable such as menus, condiments and any other food containers" to prevent the spread of the virus. More specifically, the CDC recommended eateries to use "single-serving condiments," such as individual packets.
Numerous regulations and or advisories sent ketchup packet prices surging, up more than 13% since the beginning of the pandemic. Heinz, the largest producer who controls 70% of the US condiment market, was overwhelmed by demand, and this is how the shortage was sparked.
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