Los Angeles, CA – Huy Fong Foods, the maker of the iconic Sriracha sauce known for its rooster-adorned, green-capped bottles, has announced a temporary halt in production until after Labor Day. This decision has raised concerns among Sriracha fans about the possibility of another shortage, as the company cited issues with the red jalapeño chile peppers used in the sauce.
According to a letter obtained by USA TODAY, Huy Fong Foods stated that the chili peppers were not red enough to proceed with production, affecting the color of the product. As a result, all scheduled orders beginning on May 6, 2024, have been canceled, with production set to resume once the next chili season starts after Labor Day.
This recent setback could potentially lead to a bland summer for fans of Huy Fong Foods’ Sriracha sauce, as previous shortages have made it difficult to find the beloved condiment. The company’s chili garlic sauce and Sambal Oelek are also expected to be impacted by the production delay.
Fellow Sriracha manufacturers have not reported any similar issues with red jalapeños, leading some to speculate on Huy Fong Foods’ relationships with reliable jalapeño growers. Stephanie Walker, a vegetable specialist at New Mexico State University, suggests that the company may be facing challenges in securing a steady supply of jalapeños due to its sourcing from Mexico.
The root of the Sriracha production issue traces back to a fallout with Huy Fong Foods’ former supplier, Underwood Ranches, which led to a breach of contract and a subsequent legal dispute. Since then, Underwood Ranches has launched its own rival brand of Sriracha sauce, further complicating the production landscape for Huy Fong Foods.
Despite assurances from Huy Fong Foods that the quality and flavor of the Sriracha sauce have not been compromised by the jalapeño shortage, experts like Walker emphasize the importance of using red jalapeños for the sauce’s distinct taste. Red jalapeños are known to be sweeter and offer a more complex flavor profile compared to their green counterparts, making them essential for maintaining the sauce’s signature characteristics.
As the Sriracha shortage looms, fans of Huy Fong Foods’ iconic hot sauce are left wondering about the future availability of their favorite condiment. With memories of past shortages still fresh in their minds, some enthusiasts are bracing for potential runs on Sriracha bottles, resorting to stockpiling as a means of ensuring they won’t be left without their beloved spicy kick.