Los Angeles, California – Huy Fong Foods, the producer of the iconic Sriracha sauce, has announced a halt in production until after Labor Day due to issues with their red jalapeño chile peppers. The lack of intensity in color in the peppers has led to concerns about a potential shortage of the beloved condiment.

The decision to pause production was communicated to wholesale buyers in a letter obtained by sources. Huy Fong Foods cited the greenness of the chili peppers as the reason behind the production setback, affecting the crucial color of the sauce. As a result, all scheduled orders beginning in May 2024 have been canceled.

This development could spell trouble for fans of the popular hot sauce, as previous shortages have made it difficult to find Sriracha on shelves. The company also produces other products like chili garlic sauce and Sambal Oelek, which are also impacted by the pepper shortage.

Stephanie Walker, a professor and vegetable specialist at New Mexico State University, suggests that Huy Fong Foods’ reliance on jalapeño growers in Mexico may be a factor in their production challenges. The company’s former supplier of jalapeños, Underwood Ranches, severed ties with Huy Fong in 2017, leading to a fallout that eventually resulted in a legal dispute.

The quality of Sriracha sauce relies heavily on the use of ripe, red jalapeños, as Walker explains. Greenish peppers harvested prematurely can affect the flavor profile of the sauce, as the ripening process brings out a sweeter and more nuanced taste in the peppers. This attention to detail in sourcing and processing is crucial in maintaining the distinctive flavor of Sriracha.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the current shortage, loyal fans of Huy Fong Sriracha remain devoted to the brand. The history of the company, dating back to the post-Vietnam War era, has endeared it to many spice enthusiasts who are willing to go to great lengths to get their hands on a bottle of the beloved sauce.

As the company navigates through these production challenges, Sriracha fans brace themselves for the potential impact on their favorite spicy condiment. The saga of Huy Fong Foods and its Sriracha sauce continues to unfold, leaving consumers hopeful for a swift resolution to the current pepper predicament.