Thanksgiving Cranberry Supply Short: Global Warming a Cause?

cranberry, apple, crisp, red, mill, recipe

Photo: Olga Lyubkina / istock

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Scientists, climatologists, financial analysts, farmers, and cranberry lovers alike worry this year’s massive cranberry decrease isn’t just a passing phenomenon. According to the Christian Science Monitor, the red berry, ubiquitous during the holiday season will fall short by one-third this year and is held to retreat north later this century, deserting some key growing regions.

Scientists blame this past year's unusually warm winter. A summer drought in much of the United States and Canada did not help matters either. Considering the fruit thrives with a cold winter and heavy rain, balmy winters and dry summers make for a low yield.

As reported by the Christian Science Monitor, the Northeast Climate Impacts Assessment (NECIA), says the Northeast’s food commodities are likely to suffer the effects of warmer temperatures. The organization, which closely studies the economic impact of global warming, said berries, a highly lucrative crop in New England, are anticipated to see the greatest reduction.

In light of dwindling supply, The Wall Street Journal reports cranberry prices are expected to rise sharply in the coming weeks. Hefty price tags are anticipated for everything from cranberry muffins to Craisins — if even in stock.

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