What to Do When Ingredients Aren’t Available

Even the best-laid plans can get turned upside down by supply chain issues. From detrimental weather events to trade disputes, any number of factors can affect the quality and availability of food products. There isn’t much to do as caterers but roll with the punches. However, that doesn’t mean you have to figure out a backup plan on the fly.

Preparing for food shortages is wise for caterers and restaurant owners, providing a contingency for unforeseen events that could impact your business. Taking a proactive approach ensures you’re not left scrambling when key ingredients are unavailable. 

So, what can you do to navigate ingredient shortages? Keep reading for our best practices to stay adaptable in the face of supply chain disruptions.

Adjust your menu

Supply shortages can feel more severe when your inventory is spread thin by an extensive menu. Instead of trying to source a wide variety of hard-to-find ingredients, consider trimming back to a few reliable dishes that use ingredients you know you can procure consistently. This not only simplifies your operations but also allows you to focus on quality over quantity.

When adjusting your menu, think about the versatility of your ingredients. Can they be used in multiple dishes? The more you can streamline your menu with overlapping ingredients, the easier it is to maintain consistency and reduce waste.

If desired, you could also test out new menu options with sustainable ingredients to supplement your remaining meals. For example, if local farms have a lower output due to avian flu, consider replacing poultry-based meals with seafood and vegetarian options.

Swap in alternatives

You may hold your recipes near and dear, but don’t be afraid to switch things up if an ingredient is unavailable. Consider alternative ingredients that can deliver similar flavors or textures. For instance, if you’re dealing with meat shortages, you might prepare your prized Wagyu burger recipe with ground seafood, like salmon patties or crab cakes. It won’t be your original dish, but you may discover that you’ve created an all-new dish that is just as tasty!

This kind of flexibility ensures that your kitchen continues to operate smoothly while also keeping your menu fresh and exciting. Plus, experimenting in the kitchen is a great way to hone your creativity and stand out from competitors! Just be sure to give yourself time to develop and tweak your new creations before officially adding them to the menu.

Communicate with your customers

Transparency with customers is crucial when navigating ingredient shortages. Tell them about the changes to your menu and why they may not see their favorite dish for a while. Most customers will appreciate the honesty and understand the bigger picture, so don’t worry about losing business. If anything, you can use this opportunity to highlight any new dishes you’re offering and ask your patrons for feedback.

Leverage GPO membership

When in doubt, ask for help! As part of a group purchasing organization (GPO), you can consult with the member success team for recommendations that fit your menu style and budget. Your local representatives are knowledgeable about the market and can guide you in making the best purchasing decisions to maintain the integrity of your offerings.

GPOs often have access to a broader network of suppliers, allowing them to source alternative ingredients quickly and cost-effectively on your behalf. This can be especially beneficial during times of high demand when prices are high and ingredients are hard to find. By going through a GPO, you’ll access wholesale discounts that can soften the impact of food costs.

Supply chain challenges shouldn’t derail your business. With a proactive approach and strategic adjustments, you can continue delivering the top-notch dining experience that keeps your customers coming back — even when unexpected situations arise!

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales forSB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member.Request a quote today.