The festive season in Jamaica, known for its vibrant celebrations and delicious traditional drinks, is facing a sorrel shortage this year. The beloved Christmas beverage, made from the hibiscus flower, is in limited supply due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl and subsequent heavy rainfall across the island.
As one of the key suppliers of sorrel in Jamaica, Trade Winds Limited is feeling the effects of this shortage. Peter McConnell, the managing director of Trade Winds Citrus, revealed that the company has had to pay up to 60 per cent more to source the crop this season. Despite facing challenges, McConnell remains optimistic about meeting the demand for sorrel during the holiday season.
Here are some key points to consider about the sorrel shortage in Jamaica:
- Trade Winds Limited has paid up to $400 per pound for sorrel this year, compared to $250 per pound in previous years.
- The company has procured over 60,000 pounds of sorrel from its network of farmers across the island to ensure an adequate supply.
- Despite the increase in prices, Trade Winds has not passed on these additional costs to consumers.
- Sorrel is a highly popular beverage during the Christmas season, outselling even orange juice in December.
Former president of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, Lenworth Fulton, shed light on the reasons behind the sorrel shortage. He explained that the plants were affected by Hurricane Beryl in July, just as they were starting to bloom for the holiday season. This led to a shortage that has persisted throughout the year.
McConnell emphasized the importance of supporting local farmers in sustaining the supply of sorrel. While Trade Winds attempted to grow sorrel themselves, they now rely on a network of farmers for their sourcing needs. McConnell encourages more farmers to plant sorrel year-round to ensure a consistent supply beyond the Christmas season.
In conclusion, the sorrel shortage in Jamaica highlights the importance of resilience and cooperation within the agricultural sector. By working together, farmers and producers can overcome challenges and ensure that beloved traditions, like enjoying sorrel during the holidays, continue to thrive. Let’s support our local farmers and embrace the spirit of sharing and abundance this festive season.
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