15 Once Essential Grocery Items That Are Now Hard to Find
Grocery shopping has changed. Items we once tossed into our carts without thinking are vanishing from shelves. Last Thursday, I set out on a routine mission to restock my freezer with staples, frozen peas, vegetable pizza, and a pint of ice cream.
But when I turned into the frozen aisle, I saw empty shelves and “Out of Stock” signs instead of well-stocked freezers. The trip felt less like grocery shopping and more like stepping into a dystopian scene, where everyday shoppers face an invisible villain — rising energy costs and global supply chain delays. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, commercial electricity prices have risen by over 13% in the past two years. Additionally, frozen vegetable availability dropped by 8% in 2024, according to the USDA’s Vegetables and Pulses Outlook report.
Suddenly, the freezer aisle was more than just cold—it felt like a window into a world where climate issues, commerce, and dinner plans intersect. Here are 15 grocery items that have become unexpectedly difficult to find. We also examine the causes of these shortages and offer some insights on how to address them.
Canned Tuna
Tuna became a commodity that is difficult to find in most stores. According to Nature World News, Industrial overfishing since 1950 has caused a dramatic 70% decline in yellowfin tuna populations in the Indian Ocean.
Stricter policies on sustainable fishing practices contribute to the shortage, which is crucial for conserving marine life. To adapt, you can replace canned tuna with substitutes like sardines or mackerel. They are more numerous and have similar nutritional values.
Powdered Milk
Powdered milk is becoming scarce due to climate change. Extreme weather conditions, caused by droughts and extreme heat, have reduced dairy production, leading to a significant price increase over the last two years. The increase in transportation expenses is also complicating the supply chain.
DairyNews today reports that the gap between global dairy supply and demand could reach 30 million tons by 2030. Concurrently, market dynamics are shifting as consumers opt for plant-based milk alternatives. Almond and oat milk powders are excellent alternatives that have a long shelf life and can be used very well in your pantry.
Yeast
Yeast had become a high-demand product during the pandemic, and its supply is currently unable to meet its full demand. With households rediscovering baking, and while factory shutdowns created shortages, demand was high.
To this day, supply chains struggle to keep pace with the enduring popularity of home baking. When there is a supply of yeast, experts recommend stocking up because it has a long shelf life. Alternatively, you can learn how to make sourdough starter, a natural, self-reproducing substitute for store-bought yeast.
Canned Vegetables
Canned vegetables, a key component of quick meals, are influenced by several factors. Aluminum shortages for cans, partly due to a 25% tariff on aluminum as reported by CNN, and increased demand during crises have squeezed supply.
To offset this, try freezing fresh vegetables when they’re in season. This would put you in possession of ingredients at your fingertips, rather than depending on the precarious market of canned goods.
Almond Butter
Persistent supply chain issues, farming challenges, and fluctuations in demand have impacted the market for almond butter. In 2023, California, which produces more than 80 percent of the world’s almond supply, according to a USDA report, experienced a reduction in production due to droughts and water management issues.
Consequently, an average increase in the prices of the almond butter was recorded, which signifies these growing strains in the industry. Stock up on almond butter when prices stabilize, or opt for making your own at home using raw almonds purchased in bulk during sales.
Canned Soups
Canned soups are under a different challenge. Due to the high demand under emergency circumstances, as well as the shortages of aluminum cans, production outputs have decreased at a very high rate.
Making soups in large quantities and freezing some of them may also be an option to breeze over the inconvenience. It will cost you very little, it is highly customizable, and when the shelves in the stores do not satisfy you, it is a perfect replacement.
Cooking Oil
There has been a price explosion in cooking oil due to a worldwide shortage of palm, sunflower, and other cooking oils. The Washington Post notes that the war in Ukraine, which is one of the world’s largest producers of sunflower oil, has caused a severe disruption, and an increase in global demand adds further pressure to the supply chain.
You can also find substitutes for cooking oil, such as avocado or coconut oil, rather than stockpiling cooking oils. They are freely accessible and present special health advantages, especially in terms of cooking requirements.
Flour
Climatic problems and geopolitical issues have also led to shortages of wheat, which have affected flour production. The major wheat-growing areas have experienced drought, which acts as a supply constraint, coupled with export restrictions on grain exports.
Consider purchasing substitutes for flour, such as almond or chickpea flour, as alternatives. All these options are not only available but also timely, given the growing popularity of gluten-free and low-carb diets.
Baby Formula
Following massive product recalls and supply chain shocks, baby formula scarcity was a headline grabber, most prominently in the United States. Shortages in retailing reached their all-time peak, and several families struggled to find alternatives.
Doctors, especially pediatricians, recommend that a person consult a health practitioner before changing formula, as nutritional requirements are age-related and dependent on individual health needs. One could consider online sellers or local small brands that may have stock when there are shortages.
Coffee
Climate change is reducing the amount of coffee grown because it is hitting hard the growing areas that have been successful over the decades.
Climate patterns are reducing the availability of favorable farmlands and decreasing the production of arabica beans, which account for approximately 70% of the world’s coffee supply each year, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Some coffee producers are experimenting with climate-resistant coffee varieties, but these solutions may take years to become mainstream. Staying on the lookout for local roasters who roast sustainably can provide you with a consistent supply, helping to promote sustainability in the farming industry.
Spices (like Vanilla and Saffron)
Some other spices, such as vanilla and saffron, are more scarce, which is attributed to the problems of harvesting them on a large scale, combined with the issue of climate change. Over the past few years, Vanilla prices have risen due to the low production of Vanilla in Madagascar, which is the world’s center of Vanilla production.
To stretch your pantry’s staples, use sparing amounts or explore high-quality substitutes, such as vanilla extract. Knowing the ins and outs of sourcing, you will make a choice that will provide you with ethically and sustainably sourced spices.
Butter
Butter prices are rising as dairy herds shrink and feed costs for livestock increase. The supply has tightened further due to logistical challenges. Nutritionists suggest substituting olive oil or coconut oil for butter in specific recipes. This not only makes shopping easier but also provides healthier cooking options.
Fresh Berries
Shortages of fresh berries in the United States are caused by the unpredictability of the weather, increasing farming costs, and supply chain disruptions, which drive up prices and constrain supply.
Are you looking for a solution? I recommend frozen berries because they are nutritious, affordable, and can be used in smoothies or any other baking recipe. Readily purchase produce at local markets, or grow it in your garden!
Strawberries thrive in containers, offering a steady supply. Shop during peak seasons for better prices and fresher options. Take charge of your berry game and enjoy these delicious fruits year-round!!
Pasta
Pasta shortages can be attributed to issues with global wheat supplies and persistent high demand for pasta. Droughts in North America and Europe have driven up wheat prices, according to the World Food Programme.
The producers have been unable to provide a uniform supply, resulting in significant stock gaps at most stores. Pasta became a comfort food during the lockdowns, increasing demand and outpacing supply. Consider adding lentils, chickpeas, or brown rice to your pasta for a nutritious option.
Keep a variety of different types of pasta in stock to give you more flexibility. You can also consider shopping at specialty groceries to add even more variety.
Frozen Vegetables
Rising energy prices and global supply chain disruptions are impacting the frozen food industry. Producers face higher expenses due to increasing electricity costs, which is expected to lead to higher prices for frozen vegetables this year.
There are also delays in restocking shelves due to transportation bottlenecks and a labor shortage. As the season approaches, consider buying a large quantity of in-season vegetables or other products and freezing them at home.
Nutrition experts advise that freezing fresh veggies at their peak locks in nutrients and ensures year-round access. Local markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs provide alternative sources that can help you overcome a lack of supply and support local farmers.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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