THE CARBON dioxide shortage that had threatened to bring a halt to beer production in Ireland and Europe is close to being remedied.
A shortfall in CO2, brought about by scheduled maintenance and repair work on the factories responsible for the production of the gas, had looked set to disrupt the production of beer and fizzy drinkers.
The gas is used to dispense beer from steel kegs and in the bottling process.
It also plays a role in meat production, the manufacture of baked goods and in the packaging of salads and other fresh foods.
And with the summer in full swing and World Cup in its climactic stages, the worry was that beer stocks could run out within a matter of weeks unless the shortfall was fixed.
Those fears, however, have been allayed by news from the Food & Drink Federation that the plants currently in charge of CO2 production are coming back online.
It would appear that the worst is over with the trade body confirming that the supply chain is likely to return to normal within the next few weeks.
"We understand that a number of the plants which were down due to maintenance or repair have now resumed CO2 production," an FDF spokesperson confirmed.
"We will be working closely with the Government and partners across the supply chain in the next few weeks to ensure mechanisms are in place to avoid potential shortages should such scenarios arise in the future."
Though pub bosses have suggested there is more than enough beer on offer to keep fans merry during the World Cup, that situation is likely to change.
If England reaches the final, for example, beer sales are likely to go through the roof.
Some will be drinking to celebrate, others to commiserate. Whichever way you choose, just make sure you drink sensibly.
