There May Be a Global Black Pepper Shortage Soon

NEED TO KNOW

There may be a global shortage of black pepper on the horizon, causing prices to increase

Inventory and production levels of black peppercorn — the seed from which black pepper is derived — are down due to a variety of factors

Only four countries generate about 80% of the world’s black peppercorn supply, meaning changes in production have far-reaching impacts

One of the world’s most common kitchen ingredients might become scarce soon: black pepper.

According to the U.S.-based spice importer Majestic Spice , global inventory levels of black peppercorn — the seed from which black pepper is derived — are down, despite the fact that demand levels have not changed. This scarcity is expected to drive the price higher.

Additionally, unpredictable rain and drought cycles in