Major Supermarket Confirms Christmas Turkey Shortage
A significant disruption is affecting Christmas preparations across the UK as Sainsbury's has officially announced a shortage of its popular Extra Large British Turkey Crowns. The supermarket giant confirmed it will not be stocking this specific product this festive season due to an unforeseen supply issue.
What's Missing from the Shelves?
Shoppers who traditionally relied on Sainsbury's for their centrepiece Christmas meal will find the Extra Large British Turkey Crown completely unavailable. This product, which weighed between 2.9kg and 3.1kg and served up to 12 people, was a staple in previous years.
In response to customer queries on social media platform X, the retailer stated: "Unfortunately, we won't be ranging an XL Crown this year due to a supply issue." Instead, the supermarket is directing customers towards its small, medium, and large turkey crowns, which cater to smaller gatherings of up to 10 people.
Reassurance and Underlying Threats
A Sainsbury's spokesperson moved to reassure customers, emphasising that there is plenty of supply for the remaining turkey crown sizes. "We know Christmas is a special time for our customers and we're offering a wide range of delicious fresh and frozen turkey crowns," the spokesperson said. "Customers can shop with confidence knowing there are no concerns about the availability of these sizes."
However, the broader threat to the UK's poultry supply was highlighted by farmer Andrew Goodman of Goodman's Geese in Great Witley, Worcestershire. He told the BBC that the threat of bird flu remains a "continual worry" for producers in the lead-up to Christmas.
Mr Goodman outlined the devastating potential impact of a single outbreak: "If we got it, all the birds would be slaughtered on the farm and then, with our free-range system, you're not allowed to restock for 12 months. Which would mean no birds for Christmas next year." He estimated that one infection could wipe out provisions for 10,000 Christmas lunches.
While he expressed hope that his farm would be spared, he admitted the anxiety is ever-present, stating: "It's frightening every time you come down in the morning to check the birds... It does play on your mind quite a bit."
