The ongoing pandemic has disrupted supply chains across various industries, impacting everything from lumber to electronics. However, perhaps the most distressing news for parents with young children is that chicken tenders—one of the few foods that picky eaters will actually consume—are now facing shortages.
The beloved chicken tender is becoming harder to find and more expensive due to supply chain issues. As reported by NBC News, its complex processing and packaging requirements make it particularly vulnerable to shortages of labor and materials. “Americans are expected to consume 100 pounds of chicken per person this year,” stated reporter Kerry Sanders on The Today Show. “Tenders require more processing to package and sell, which industry experts say is part of the reason why they can be harder to find and now more costly when you get them in your local market.”
As USA Today highlights, the price of chicken has risen from $3.44 to $3.54 per pound compared to last year, with further increases to $3.98 per pound in recent weeks. The reasons behind this price surge vary. The White House announced in September that the USDA is investigating potential price-fixing in the chicken-processing sector. Meanwhile, manufacturers cite labor shortages and adverse weather as contributing factors.
Parents, however, are less concerned with assigning blame and more focused on how to explain to their children that their cherished chicken tenders may now resemble chicken nuggets. If you think that’s not a big deal, you likely don’t have kids.
Many parents are trying to keep their spirits up amid the shortage. Fast-food chains like KFC and A&W have removed the elusive tender from their advertisements, while Nashville’s Hattie B’s Hot Chicken has also felt the pinch. Culinary VP Brian Morris mentioned, “There is no safe harbor in the supply chain right now. We see it across the board, but certainly you feel the pain the most in tenders.”
As December rolls on, parents everywhere are sending thoughts and prayers to those navigating the inevitable dinner-time struggles brought about by this chicken tender crisis.
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Summary:
The pandemic’s impact on supply chains has resulted in a shortage of chicken tenders, causing concern among parents of picky eaters. Prices are rising, and the availability of this beloved food item is dwindling, leaving families to navigate the challenges of mealtime without their favorite dish.