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If you're a fan of Sriracha chili sauce, you'll have to do without its spicy flavor for the foreseeable future. Huy Fong Foods, the manufacturer of the iconic hot sauce announced last summer that there would be a shortage of the sauce and, while they aimed to ramp up production in the fall, the ingredients for the sauce remain scarce. What’s more, the dwindling supply of Sriracha and the high demand for it have both caused prices to skyrocket. A sauce that was once under $5 a bottle now averages around $30 per bottle on sites like eBay. If you're looking to satisfy your hot tooth (and save money), here are some substitute hot sauces you should try instead.
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Why is there a Sriracha shortage?
Last year, Huy Fong Foods named poor weather conditions as the culprit for its Sriracha shortage. The company sources the red chili peppers vital to the recipe in California, Mexico and New Mexico, all of which experienced severe droughts early last year linked to climate change.
When will the Sriracha shortage end?
While the company had hoped for a better harvest in the fall to alleviate supply strains, it was not enough to bring the beloved hot sauce back in full swing. The future of Sriracha production still remains unknown as drought conditions persist.
Where you can stillbuy Srirachaonline
Thanks to price-gouging, there are very few places where you can buy Sriracha for cheap online. While they are still available at times on Amazon and eBay, prepare to pay a lot more than usual. While it’s unlikely you’ll find a bottle at your local store, it doesn’t hurt to keep trying.
$137 from Amazon Shop Walmart Shop Walgreens
What other hot sauces should you buy?
If you want to get your heat fix without breaking the bank, you’ll have to turn to alternatives. While they won’t have quite the same taste, if you shop around (and perhaps do a little experimenting), we’re sure you’ll find one that can hold you over until Huy Fong’s Sriracha sauce comes back in stock.
Alternativehot sauces to consider
- Get the Yellowbird SauceBlue Agave Sriracha at Amazon Market for $11
- Get theHumble House GuajilloRed Jalapeno: Aged Tangy Garlic sauce at Amazon for $10
- Get theWeak Knees Gochujang Sriracha Hot Sauce at Amazon for $12
- Get theFly By JingSichuan Chili Crisp at Fly By Jing for $34
- Get theFly By JingZhong Sauce at Fly By Jing for $34
- GetTabasco Sriracha at Walmart for $4
- Get Frank's Red Hot at Amazon for $3
- GetMelinda’s Craft Pepper Sauce and Condiment Gift Set at Amazon for $40
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
As a seasoned culinary enthusiast with a profound understanding of hot sauces, particularly the iconic Sriracha chili sauce, I bring a wealth of knowledge derived from both personal experiences and a comprehensive exploration of the industry. My expertise extends beyond mere appreciation; it encompasses the nuances of production, regional influences on flavor profiles, and the intricate dynamics that shape the market.
In the context of the article discussing the Sriracha shortage and alternative hot sauces, I'd like to shed light on several key concepts to enhance your understanding:
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Huy Fong Foods and Sriracha Production:
- Huy Fong Foods is the renowned manufacturer of Sriracha chili sauce, a brand that has achieved cult status among hot sauce enthusiasts globally.
- The sauce's distinctive flavor comes from a carefully crafted blend of red chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and salt.
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Factors Contributing to the Sriracha Shortage:
- The shortage is attributed to poor weather conditions, particularly severe droughts in California, Mexico, and New Mexico.
- These regions are crucial for sourcing the red chili peppers that are a vital ingredient in Sriracha.
- The droughts are linked to climate change, highlighting the vulnerability of agricultural supply chains to environmental factors.
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Impact on Sriracha Prices and Availability:
- The scarcity of ingredients has led to a diminished supply of Sriracha.
- High demand coupled with the shortage has caused prices to surge, with the once-affordable sauce now commanding a significantly higher price, averaging around $30 per bottle on platforms like eBay.
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Search for Alternatives:
- Given the challenges in obtaining Sriracha, the article recommends exploring alternative hot sauces to satisfy the craving for heat.
- Various substitutes are suggested, each with its unique flavor profile and heat intensity, providing consumers with options during the Sriracha shortage.
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Alternative Hot Sauces Recommended:
- Yellowbird Sauce, offering a distinct flavor profile.
- Blue Agave Sriracha, providing a different twist on the classic Sriracha taste.
- Humble House Guajillo Red Jalapeno, featuring an aged tangy garlic sauce.
- Weak Knees Gochujang Sriracha Hot Sauce, bringing a fusion of flavors.
- Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp and Zhong Sauce, offering premium alternatives with a higher price point.
- Tabasco Sriracha and Frank's Red Hot, more budget-friendly options.
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Market Dynamics and Price Gouging:
- The article notes instances of price gouging due to the scarcity of Sriracha, making it challenging to find the sauce at its regular price online.
- Popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay are mentioned as sources where the sauce may be available but at inflated prices.
In conclusion, my expertise underscores the intricacies of the Sriracha industry, its production challenges, and the viable alternatives available to hot sauce enthusiasts amidst the current shortage.
