Caribbean Hot Sauce Producers Face Shortages, Rising Prices

Caribbean hot sauce producers are warning of impending shortages and increased prices as key pepper varieties, particularly the Scotch bonnet, face significant cultivation challenges across the region. Jamaica's Rural Agricultural Development Authority has noted that peppers are "facing myriad challenges" due to susceptibility to viruses and pests like gall midges.

Scotch bonnets are a flagship product for the Caribbean, with 40% of Jamaica's production being exported. The shortage is being felt by manufacturers in neighboring islands as well. Ensly Smith, owner of Homebrew Hot Sauce in Antigua, stated that his company sometimes has to defer or reduce orders from suppliers. "When peppers are in abundance we stock up. When Hurricane Melissa hit, we had close to 600lbs [272kg] in storage so we were able to stay afloat," Smith explained.

Novella Payne, who produces sauces, syrups, and jams under her Granma Aki label, has turned to using locally grown Moruga scorpion peppers from Trinidad to circumvent the high prices of Scotch bonnets, noting they provide a "nice flavour."

As the warmer months arrive, a peak season for both Scotch bonnets and potential storms, manufacturers are closely monitoring weather patterns. Some producers are exploring resilience through hybrid red chili peppers, while others, like Walkerswood in Jamaica, are partnering with the government to establish farms and fund genetic research to develop a more resilient strain of the classic yellow Scotch bonnet. "Lots of countries grow red chillis, but our yellow peppers are special," said one producer. "I'm a purist at heart and I think our Scotch bonnets need to be properly protected."