Ketchup packets are selling for premium prices on eBay these days and there is said to be a nationwide ketchup packet shortage right now in the United States.
Some packets are selling for $1 to hundreds for several of them that have been unopened. The sudden price increase in ketchup packets and shortage of supply has been linked to rumors of disruptions to the supply chain and it isn't clear how long it might go on for.
Heinz right now said they are working around the clock to address the demand.
Hitting restaurants
The shortage isn't going to be good news for restaurants, they'll have to struggle to find an alternative or just go without for now. Some have already started making their own ketchup because they are having a hard time finding some.
Just like we saw with sanitizer and toilet paper last year, it took several weeks to get back on track. Eventually it got back to normal.
Ketchup companies are busy increasing production right now to meet that demand but who knows how long until things level out and return to normal for supply.