Pumpkin Shortage

Yesterday, Nestle released an announcement apologizing for the expected shortage of pumpkins. This shortage is a result of the devastating amount of rain fall the Midwest has accumulated recently. This rain fall has ruined the remaining pumpkins of this year's rather small harvest.

Nestle controls about 85% of the pumpkin crops that are used for canning. The shortage was suspected because last year's crop failed to produce a surplus of pumpkins that would have otherwise been used in addition to this year's crop. The shortage is expected to last until the next crop can be harvested, usually around August. You may notice a shortage of canned pumpkin, such as Libby's 100% pumpkin and pumpkin pie mix, but it depends on where you are. The only good aspect of this dilemma is that the pumpkin pie season is coming to a close and stores expect to have enough pumpkin to last up through Thanksgiving.

Of course, there are alternatives to canned pumpkin. You can always use the real thing! If so, Nestle uses the Select Dickinson pumpkin; it's sweeter and heavier. So, if you're a pumpkin addict, it would be advisable for you to go to the grocery store!

-Caroline Robb