Supermarkets across the country are facing a shortage of orange juice, attributed to a combination of factors including cyclone damage on the East Coast and reduced yields from Brazil, the leading orange producer globally. Brazilian orchards have been affected by drought and disease, resulting in a significant decrease in production.
Despite initial assurances from Citrus New Zealand in July that the country's orange juice supply would not be impacted, shortages became apparent in August. The Better Drinks Company, distributor of Charlie's brand orange juice, acknowledged the impact of the global shortage on its stock, which ran out last month. However, they expect replenishment soon. Similarly, Homegrown Juice has experienced shortages. Foodstuffs has noted the global shortage's impact on its stores and is working to mitigate it by increasing production of smaller bottles and offering blended juice options. Woolworths is addressing supply issues by introducing its own brand line of juices.
The shortage highlights broader industry challenges, including the financial viability of orange orcharding. Bruce Coventry of Living Juices pointed out the economic pressures on small growers, exacerbated by low prices and stringent certification requirements, particularly for organic producers. This situation underscores the difficulties smaller producers face in the market, despite the high quality of their products.
Source: RNZ