Chocolate
Chocolate lovers around the world are facing an unsettling reality: cocoa, the essential ingredient in chocolate, is becoming harder to find. According to the International Cocoa Organization, global cocoa prices hit an all-time high in early 2025 due to poor harvests in West Africa, which supplies over 60% of the world’s cocoa beans. Diseases like swollen shoot virus and severe droughts have battered crops in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, leading to a projected 20% drop in output this year alone. Major chocolate manufacturers like Hershey and Mondelez have warned of shrinking supplies and rising prices. Supermarkets in Europe and North America are already reporting empty shelves and smaller product sizes. This shortage is sending ripples through everything from chocolate bars to baked goods. Experts predict this trend could last for years unless weather patterns stabilize and new disease-resistant plants are developed.
Olive Oil
Anyone who enjoys Mediterranean cuisine has probably noticed the skyrocketing price of olive oil. The world’s largest producers—Spain, Italy, and Greece—have suffered catastrophic harvests due to extreme heat and prolonged droughts, with Spain experiencing its worst olive harvest in decades. According to the European Commission, olive oil production in the EU dropped by over 40% between 2023 and 2024. Retailers in the UK and US have started rationing bottles, and some stores are completely out of stock. The International Olive Council warns that these shortages will likely persist throughout 2025. Fraudulent “olive oil” blends are appearing as genuine supplies dwindle. For many home cooks, the days of drizzling olive oil generously over salads and pastas may be numbered.
Vanilla
Vanilla, beloved for its rich flavor in baking and desserts, is becoming a rare luxury. About 80% of the world’s vanilla comes from Madagascar, but cyclone damage, theft, and political instability have devastated the industry since 2023. Prices have soared by over 300% in the past two years, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization. Many companies are now using artificial vanilla or reducing real vanilla content in their products. Supermarket shelves in the US and Europe regularly run out of pure vanilla extract. The high cost and limited availability are making it tough for both home bakers and large manufacturers. If this trend continues, vanilla ice cream might become a nostalgic treat rather than a staple.
Bananas
A fungus known as Tropical Race 4 is threatening the global banana supply, especially the Cavendish variety, which makes up about 50% of worldwide banana exports. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization reported in 2024 that the disease has now spread to major growing regions in Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Supermarkets in the US, UK, and Australia have already noted gaps in banana displays and rising prices. Importers have warned that shortages could become the new normal if the fungus isn’t contained. The crisis has also hurt small farmers, who rely on bananas as a primary source of income. This staple fruit, once considered endlessly abundant, is now at risk of vanishing from breakfast tables.
Wild-Caught Salmon
Wild-caught salmon, a favorite for its flavor and health benefits, has become increasingly scarce. The North Pacific Anadromous Fish Commission revealed that Pacific salmon populations hit their lowest levels in decades during 2024. Overfishing, warming ocean temperatures, and habitat destruction are the main culprits. Grocery chains in Japan, Canada, and the US have reduced their wild salmon offerings, with some locations switching entirely to farmed varieties. This decline impacts not only consumers but also indigenous communities and fishermen who depend on salmon for their livelihoods. The future of wild-caught salmon remains uncertain as climate stress worsens.
Coffee
Coffee drinkers may have noticed their morning brew is costing more and sometimes harder to find. Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer, suffered major crop losses due to unusual frosts and droughts between 2023 and 2024, according to the International Coffee Organization. As a result, global coffee prices reached their highest point in over a decade in early 2025. Specialty coffee shops in Europe and North America have reduced menu options or raised prices. Supermarkets are reporting spotty supplies of popular brands and blends. Coffee farmers are struggling to adapt, and experts warn that climate change could make these disruptions permanent.
Oranges and Orange Juice
Oranges, especially in the form of orange juice, are disappearing from store shelves at an alarming rate. A bacterial disease called citrus greening, combined with hurricanes in Florida and pests in Brazil, has decimated orange groves. The US Department of Agriculture reports that Florida’s orange production in 2025 is at its lowest since the 1930s. Juice companies are blending in other fruits or selling smaller bottles to stretch limited supplies. In Europe, supermarkets have implemented purchase limits on fresh oranges and juice cartons. The once-common breakfast drink is quickly becoming a luxury item.
Rice
Rice, a dietary staple for billions, is facing global shortages. India, the world’s biggest rice exporter, imposed export bans in 2024 due to drought and low yields, as documented by the International Grains Council. Southeast Asian countries also reduced exports to secure local supplies. This has led to panic buying and rationing in Africa and the Middle East. Supermarkets in the UK, US, and Australia have reported empty shelves and higher prices for popular rice varieties. The disruption has hit low-income families the hardest, as rice is often a main food source. Experts warn that climate volatility could further threaten future crops.
Avocados
Avocado fans may find their favorite fruit missing more often this year. Mexico, which supplies over 40% of the world’s avocados, has struggled with drought and water shortages as well as cartel violence disrupting supply chains. The Hass Avocado Board reported a 25% reduction in exports to the US and Europe between 2023 and 2024. Supermarkets in major cities have had to limit purchases, and prices have more than doubled in some areas. Restaurants are cutting back on guacamole and avocado toast offerings. The future of this once-ubiquitous fruit looks uncertain as environmental and social challenges persist.
Wheat
Wheat shortages are causing concern for bread lovers worldwide. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and extreme heatwaves across the US and Europe have slashed global wheat production, according to the International Grains Council’s 2025 report. Major exporters like Russia and Canada have also seen lower yields. As a result, grocery stores in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia are reporting empty shelves or higher prices for flour and bread. Food banks are struggling to meet demand as wheat-based products become less affordable. The wheat crisis is forcing governments to reevaluate food security and agricultural policies.
Almonds
Almonds, particularly popular in plant-based diets, are under threat due to historic droughts in California, which produces about 80% of the world’s supply. The California Department of Food and Agriculture reported that almond production dropped by nearly 30% in 2024, the lowest in over a decade. Water restrictions and high costs have pushed many farmers to switch to less water-intensive crops. Supermarkets across North America and Europe are experiencing shortages of almond milk, flour, and snack packs. Prices have soared, making almonds a rare treat rather than a pantry staple. The future of almond farming remains uncertain as drought conditions continue.
Beer
Beer lovers are feeling the pinch as key ingredients like barley and hops become harder to source. The Brewers Association noted that European barley harvests suffered severe losses due to heatwaves and flooding in 2024, while hop yields in Germany and the US were also down. Breweries in the UK, Germany, and the US have scaled back production or substituted less desirable ingredients. Supermarkets are reporting patchy supplies and higher prices for popular brands. Some craft breweries have even closed due to supply chain disruptions. The traditional pint may soon become a pricey indulgence.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup, a breakfast favorite in North America, is facing an uncertain future. The Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers reported that 2024’s harvest was down 15% due to unusually warm winters and erratic spring weather. This drop is significant, since Quebec produces nearly 70% of the world’s maple syrup. Stores across Canada and the US have imposed limits on sales, and prices have hit record highs. The shortage is also affecting global exports, making maple syrup harder to find in Europe and Asia. If warming trends continue, this iconic sweetener could become an expensive rarity.
Potatoes
Potatoes, used in everything from fries to chips, are now at risk. Flooding and droughts in Europe and North America have reduced yields, with the European Potato Trade Association reporting a 20% drop in 2024’s harvest. Some regions in the UK and Ireland have even seen empty supermarket bins for weeks. Increased disease outbreaks, including late blight, have added to the woes. Food companies have scaled back production of frozen fries and potato snacks. For many families, the humble potato is no longer a dependable kitchen staple.
Cheese
Cheese lovers are confronting shrinking selections and rising prices. Dairy herds across Europe, the US, and New Zealand have declined due to heat stress, disease outbreaks, and higher feed costs, according to the International Dairy Federation. Cheese production in France and Italy dropped by over 15% in 2024. Some supermarkets in the US and UK have reduced the variety of cheeses on offer, and specialty cheeses are almost impossible to find. Restaurants are cutting back on cheese-heavy dishes, and prices for everyday favorites like cheddar and mozzarella have soared. The global cheese shortage is reshaping menus and shopping habits everywhere.
