CHICKEN wings are one of the most popular appetizers in America and are often served at parties and on game days.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of foods have faced shortages and many fear that their beloved chicken wings may be next.
Is there a national chicken wing shortage?
While there is not a shortage of chicken in the United States, the demand for the wings is often high due to its popularity.
Since the start of the pandemic, many have seen an increase in meat prices, with wings going up 7% for a record high of $3.22 per pound in 2021.
With the demand skyrocketing, many have also faced shortages due to lack of labor which has added to the chicken wing dilemma.
“This is an item that has to be cut up and produced, so they need hands to make it happen. So I do have concerns,” Joseph Parisi, a supermarket executive, told CBS Los Angeles.
At this time, it remains unclear when things will return to normal.
What does this mean for the Super Bowl?
The Super Bowl is arguably the most popular sporting event of the year, and it is often celebrated with pizza and wings.
However, due to the chicken wing shortage, many might have problems when it comes to finding their favorite part of the chicken.
As a result, many restaurants have started promoting boneless wings and since they come from breast meat, they are easier to get.
Selling boneless wings “give us options for lower prices,” Andy Wiederhorn, CEO of FAT Brands told Insider.
What other food shortages have there been?
Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, many foods have seen shortages due to low production speed and staff shortages.
Other food shortages have included oranges, coffee beans, baby formula, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, and cream cheese.
American’s have also seen a shortage of flowers ahead of the Valentine’s Day weekend.
Many fear that eggs and pet food could be next.
