FAST-FOOD INDUSTRY HIT BY POTATO SHORTAGE

Fast-food outlets in some countries have been hit by a shortage of potatoes which means a lot of people aren’t able to order chips with their favourite meals.

While South Africa hasn’t been affected so far, Japan isn’t so lucky.

Business Insider reports that disruptions caused by global supply chain issues have caused a shortage of potatoes, leading to McDonald’s in Japan rationing fries for customers. The fast-food outlet resorted to suspending the sale of bigger pack fries.

A freight company in the United States came to the rescue when they stepped in by sending three of their planes filled with potatoes to Japan.

The potato shortage has also hit countries in Africa. KFC in Kenya has officially run out of potatoes for chips. This is due to supply constraints. They have resorted to offering customers alternative side options to replace their favourite fries.

McDonald’s and KFC in South Africa have both confirmed to Business Insider that their potato supply for chips is enough to last several months. Although neither of them has expressed their concern about supply levels, they are aware of the shortage and that it could eventually have an impact locally as well.

Image credit: Fortune