Why Can’t I Find Canned Tiny Shrimp?

Tiny shrimp have disappeared from store shelves, leaving fans of these tasty little crustaceans wondering where they’ve gone. As a seafood lover myself I was curious to get to the bottom of this shortage. From bad weather to disease outbreaks, it turns out there are quite a few reasons for the lack of canned tiny shrimp.

A Fan Favorite Goes Missing

Canned tiny shrimp have long been popular Their versatility, convenience and longer shelf life compared to fresh shrimp have made them a pantry staple From shrimp salad sandwiches to saucy shrimp pasta, recipes calling for these petite shellfish abound.

With their growing popularity, demand for canned tiny shrimp has been on the rise globally. Innovations like smaller cans and pouches have also emerged, allowing for easier portioning and less waste. So why the shortage now?

Weather Woes

One major factor is severe weather events in places like the Gulf of Mexico and Southeast Asia where much of the world’s shrimp is harvested. Destructive hurricanes and typhoons have impacted shrimp populations and disrupted supply chains.

For example, major shrimp provider Minh Phu Seafood in Vietnam has had to cut production 50-70% due to typhoons. Such huge drops in supply make it difficult for manufacturers to obtain enough shrimp to meet demand.

Disease Outbreaks Decimate Shrimp Stocks

Shrimp are also being ravaged by disease outbreaks. Farming shrimp is a delicate process. When outbreaks hit shrimp populations, it can quickly spiral into shortages. Reports indicate outbreaks have led to higher shrimp prices and less availability.

Small shrimp farmers hesitating to stock ponds could further reduce volumes by year’s end. The closure of two major Vietnamese shrimp feed factories supplying 70% of the region’s feed has worsened matters. Without feed, farmers cannot seed ponds.

Factory Shutdowns Disrupt Canning

Canned shrimp shortages have been compounded by factors like aluminum and plastics shortages making packaging difficult. And without packaging, shrimp can’t be canned.

Shutdowns of key shrimp processing factories in Asia due to COVID-19 have also severely hampered canned shrimp production. With less shrimp being processed and canned, it’s no wonder store shelves are bare.

Increased Demand Outpacing Supply

In addition to reduced supply, demand for canned shrimp continues growing, especially for convenient, ready-to-eat foods. But the battered supply chains are struggling to keep up.

Canned tuna manufacturers have turned to tuna to meet demand. But with its own sustainability challenges, tuna is not a long-term solution for shrimp lovers.

U.S. Shrimpers Also Hurting

Domestic shrimpers have faced their own challenges like rising fuel and maintenance costs, lack of interest from younger generations in shrimping as a career, and competition from imported shrimp.

But consumer demand for quick seafood meals remains high in the region. Companies are developing new shelf-stable seafood products to attract more customers. But tiny shrimp’s popularity will be tough to beat.

Alternatives for Desperate Shrimp Fans

With canned tiny shrimp scarce, what options do shrimp aficionados have? Here are a few alternatives to tide you over:

• Frozen shrimp – Frozen shrimp can often be found when canned is unavailable. Thaw before using in recipes.

• Fresh shrimp – More expensive but delicious, fresh shrimp are another possibility. Devein and clean them thoroughly first.

• Crab meat – While it won’t provide the same shrimp flavor, crab meat’s texture works well substituted in some dishes.

• Diced ham/bacon – For a salty, savory flavor, swap in ham or bacon in dishes like shrimp dip.

Tips for Locating Elusive Canned Shrimp

If you’re determined to get your hands on canned tiny shrimp, here are some tips to improve your chances:

• Check online retailers like Amazon that offer extensive seafood selections.

• Visit specialty grocers like Whole Foods that carry unique products.

• Try lesser-known brands you may not normally purchase.

• Consider frozen options.

• Ask your local seafood market to order some for you.

• Check expiration dates and can quality carefully before purchasing.

Waiting Out the Shortage

For shrimp aficionados, the canned tiny shrimp shortage has certainly been a bummer. But by understanding all the factors causing it, we can empathize with the challenges shrimp suppliers are facing from bad weather to disease.

While we wait for supply to recover, following tips to find canned shrimp and trying alternatives can help us get our shrimp fix. The shortage is unfortunate but temporary. Soon enough, markets will be restocked with those tasty little shrimp many know and love. We just have to be patient shrimp lovers in the meantime!