Sriracha maker warns of ‘unprecedented shortage’ due to supply issues

The company said in a statement, "Unfortunately, we can confirm that there is an unprecedented shortage of our products. We are still endeavoring to resolve this issue that has been caused by several spiraling events, including unexpected crop failure from the spring chili harvest."

The company previously warned in an April 19 letter, distributed through an IFD Foodservice Distributor portal, that due to weather conditions affecting the quality of the peppers, there is an even more severe shortage of chilies. The letter was shared on Twitter by concerned customers.

The letter stated, "Unfortunately, this is out of our control and without this essential ingredient we are unable to produce any of our products."

"Therefore, all orders submitted on or after April 19, 2022, will be scheduled AFTER Labor Day (September 6, 2022) in the order it was received."

Huy Fong described the situation as "out of our control" and said that the shortage would affect the production and sales of Sriracha.

The hot chili sauce is made from sun-ripened red jalapeño-hybrid chili peppers and was created in 1980 by Chinese immigrant David Tran, and has been a fan favorite of consumers.

The company added that it would not accept any new orders placed before September, and because it lacks the inventory to meet that demand, any orders made before Labor Day would be fulfilled in the fall. Huy Fong told distributors to not "promise any products to customers unless you have the product in stock."

Huy Fong stated, "We hope for a fruitful fall season and thank our customers for their patience and continued support during this difficult time."

The production stoppage will also affect the company’s Chili Garlic, a chunky hot sauce made from hot red peppers and garlic, as well as Sambal Oelek Sauce, a hot sauce made from hot red peppers.