Summary
The UK government is preparing plans in case a war involving Iran disrupts supplies of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is important for food production and other industries. These plans are to avoid possible shortages of products like meat and fizzy drinks if a key shipping route remains closed. Retailers like Tesco say they have not yet seen any problems with CO2 supply.
Key Facts
- A possible war with Iran could block the strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane, affecting UK supplies of CO2 gas.
- CO2 is used in farming, food packaging, fizzy drinks, medical procedures, and cooling systems.
- Shortages of CO2 could cause gaps in supermarket shelves, especially for chicken, pork, and carbonated drinks.
- The UK government ran a planning exercise called Exercise Turnstone to prepare for a worst-case scenario.
- The Ensus bioethanol plant in Teesside has been reopened temporarily to produce more CO2.
- Tesco, the UK’s largest retailer, says it has not experienced CO2 shortages or supply chain issues so far.
- CO2 is also needed for humane slaughter of animals and to keep fresh food from spoiling.
- The government and businesses are working together to manage possible impacts from the Middle East conflict.
