Why the Beloved Beetroot Is Missing From Your Supermarket Shelves

The shortage began when New Zealand was hit by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Beetroot juice is a rich source of nitrates and powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. olepeshkina/Adobe Stock

Australia is grappling with a beetroot shortage, leaving supermarket shelves bare and consumers struggling to find the beloved vegetable. 

The shortage started a year ago when Cyclone Gabrielle hit Golden Circle’s beetroot farms in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, a key supplier to Australia.