A shortage of dried fruit could see the UK's supply of mince pies run out as we head into the Christmas season.
According to The Star, a report has revealed a lack of raisins, currants and sultanas used to make the filling for the festive favourite has hit the country.
Christmas puddings could also be affected as they become the latest products to fall victim to the nationwide labour and supply chain crisis.
Food sales analyst Mintec said the shortfall – caused by a lack of lorry drivers – could also force up prices on the shelves.
It said: “UK buyers in the nuts and dried fruit sector are... experiencing similar issues facing other sectors. Supplies are delayed at UK ports or buyers’ warehouses amid the lack of road transport capacity.”
It added that “if the situation does not improve, consumers face higher prices”.
Supermarkets said they had seen a 10% rise in sales of mince pies compared to this time last year as families rushed to stock up early for Christmas.
Earlier this month, shoppers were warned that there could be a shortage of pies due to issues getting hold of their foil cases.
The British Pie Association urged pie makers to tackle the problem by re-using the cases rather than throwing them away.
The supply chain crisis is being blamed on Brexit, the pandemic and a glut of seasonal vacancies which pushed the number of unfilled jobs to 1.1 million – a record high.
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