New Zealand breweries see CO2 rationing as shortage hits

New Zealand supplies of carbon dioxide (CO2), used to fizz drinks and in packaging and hospitals, are having to be rationed because of shortages
following the closure of the country’s only food-grade CO2 production facility.
Industrial gas producer BOC said in an email it is prioritising supplies of CO2 to critical medical, safety and water customers and rationing is in place.
“We are working collaboratively with suppliers, customers and other industry stakeholders to manage the CO2 supply situation,” it added.
The rationing is the result of the shut down of a CO2 production facility on west coast of the North Island. Todd Energy, which runs the facility, said in a statement it had to be closed while a plant safety issue was investigated.