Government reassures on CO₂ shortage fears
The UK government has sought to calm fears that beer and other fizzy drinks could become scarce during this summer’s World Cup, amid contingency planning for a potential carbon dioxide shortage.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle said there is currently no need for concern about the availability of beer during the tournament, which begins on June 11. Speaking on Thursday, Kyle emphasized that although officials are preparing for a range of possible disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions affecting global supply chains, consumers should continue as normal.
“At this moment, this is not a concern for our economy,” Kyle said, adding that the public would be informed if the situation changes.
Government contingency plans were reportedly developed after analysis suggested a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt supplies of carbon dioxide — a gas widely used across the food and beverage industry. Carbon dioxide plays a key role in carbonated drinks, helps extend the shelf life of packaged foods such as salads and baked goods, and is commonly used in the meat processing industry, including the humane slaughter of livestock.
According to reports, a worst-case scenario exercise known as “Exercise Turnstone” examined the potential impact of ongoing instability in the region on UK supply chains. The analysis suggested that reduced access to carbon dioxide could affect availability of poultry, pork, and other supermarket products if supply disruptions persist.
Kyle stressed that such preparedness exercises are routine government practice. He said the aim is to ensure the country is ready to respond to potential risks, rather than signal that shortages are imminent.
“The public shouldn’t need to worry about these scenarios,” Kyle said, adding that people should continue to enjoy food and drink as usual while officials monitor developments.
For now, ministers say there is no immediate threat to beer supplies during the World Cup, but the government will continue assessing the situation as global conditions evolve.The UK government has sought to calm fears that beer and other fizzy drinks could become scarce during this summer’s World Cup, amid contingency planning for a potential carbon dioxide shortage.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle said there is currently no need for concern about the availability of beer during the tournament, which begins on June 11. Speaking on Thursday, Kyle emphasized that although officials are preparing for a range of possible disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions affecting global supply chains, consumers should continue as normal.
“At this moment, this is not a concern for our economy,” Kyle said, adding that the public would be informed if the situation changes.
Government contingency plans were reportedly developed after analysis suggested a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt supplies of carbon dioxide — a gas widely used across the food and beverage industry. Carbon dioxide plays a key role in carbonated drinks, helps extend the shelf life of packaged foods such as salads and baked goods, and is commonly used in the meat processing industry, including the humane slaughter of livestock.
According to reports, a worst-case scenario exercise known as “Exercise Turnstone” examined the potential impact of ongoing instability in the region on UK supply chains. The analysis suggested that reduced access to carbon dioxide could affect availability of poultry, pork, and other supermarket products if supply disruptions persist.
Kyle stressed that such preparedness exercises are routine government practice. He said the aim is to ensure the country is ready to respond to potential risks, rather than signal that shortages are imminent.
“The public shouldn’t need to worry about these scenarios,” Kyle said, adding that people should continue to enjoy food and drink as usual while officials monitor developments.
For now, ministers say there is no immediate threat to beer supplies during the World Cup, but the government will continue assessing the situation as global conditions evolve.
