Beer runs dry at pubs as CO2 shortage bites

THE first pubs have run out of beer and cider as the CO2 crisis threatens World Cup celebrations. Some Wetherspoons boozers have no draught John Smith’s and Strongbow but the chain said they should be back on tap in days. The SHORT SUP-PLY John Smith’s brands’ owner Heineken said: “All our breweries are at full capacity.”

Tesco-owner wholesaler Booker has rationed outlets to 10 cases of some beers and fizzy drinks amid fears of profiteering.

The British Beer and Pub Association urged drinkers to try “something new if your usual beer isn’t available”. But the poultry industry said shortages were a week away as it tries to find alternative ways to stun birds before slaughter.

An extended break in production of ammonia, a key source of food grade CO2, has caused the crisis.