Shortages of Brit’s favorite meals might be on the horizon – from mayonnaise to steaks and beer
Brits could soon see empty supermarket shelves and higher prices for everyday favourites like beer, wine, steaks and mayonnaise, as Iran’s closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz threatens supplies
Commercial ships anchor off the coast of the United Arab Emirates due to navigation disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, Dubai on March 2, 2026(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Brits could soon face empty shelves and soaring prices for their favourite foods and drinks, from mayonnaise and steaks to beer and wine. This comes after Iran’s dramatic closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is the world’s busiest oil shipping route.
The closure comes in response to the attacks from the US and Israel. With Iranian officials threatening to set ablaze any vessel attempting passage, energy markets have already been thrown into chaos.
Oil and gas prices have consequently been skyrocketing and sparking a ripple effect on everything from food production to packaging. Moreover, experts warn that key commodities like wheat, corn, dairy, seafood, and red meat are under immediate threat.
The Daily Star takes a look at the worst affected products:
Wheat and corn
According to Food Navigator, the price of pints may go up as key ingredients like wheat and corn are now at risk thanks to the crisis in the Middle East. With Iran threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz, global trade in these grains, which are vital for making beer and many everyday foods, could grind to a halt.
Dairy supplies
The dairy market is reportedly already feeling the impact of the Middle East conflict, with experts warning that shortages of milk powder could be on the way.
Major suppliers like New Zealand say the situation is unpredictable and could change at any time.
Seafood
Seafood is also under threat, not because there isn’t enough fish, but because shipments are being blocked. This could mean big delays for seafood deliveries to the Middle East and North Africa, with supply already starting to slow down.
Red meat
Red meat is also at risk, just like seafood, because shipping delays at the Strait of Hormuz are making it harder to get fresh products through.
The Middle East is a huge market for lamb, especially halal meat, and relies on imports from Australia and New Zealand.
Exporters are now putting deliveries on hold, and experts say it’s a “wait and see” situation as they track how these freight problems will affect supplies and prices.
Foods packaged in glass
There’s also a threat to foods and drinks sold in glass bottles, including beer, wine, and spirits. Glass production uses a lot of energy, and costs are already rising. This could mean higher prices for your favourite bottled drinks.
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