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Limited availability of food-grade CO2 is beginning to impact a number of food processing sectors.
The Irish Farmers Journal understands that last Friday pig processor Rosderra did not kill in an effort to manage supplies. CO2, used to stun the animals before slaughter and to extend the shelf life of products, is also believed to be running short at the other processors.
Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, Vincent Carton, managing director of poultry processor Manor Farms, said: “We’re down to days rather than weeks and trying to get it anywhere.” In Scotland, Brechin, the country’s largest pig processor, has been forced to suspend its processing facilities as it has completely run out of CO2.
The effects of the shortage have begun to impact other meat industries and dairy processing.
CO2 is also used to cool burgers during the manufacturing phase. This is reducing throughput during a time of peak demand driven by the FIFA World Cup.
Dairy processors producing infant formula are also affected, as CO2 is flushed through the product to keep it fresh and extend its shelf life.
In a statement to the Irish Farmers Journal, Conor Mulvihill, director of Dairy Industry Ireland, said: “We are working with companies and competent authorities, especially the FSAI, to work out solutions. We are seeing what emergency alternatives, such as nitrogen, are acceptable.”
The Department of Agriculture said it was aware of the ongoing CO2 situation and that it was monitoring the supply situation with regard to the Irish food and drinks industry.
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