Khaberni - A report released on Thursday stated that British government officials have drawn up emergency plans to address a potential food shortage, should carbon dioxide supplies decline due to the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Times mentioned that a secret government analysis predicted a carbon dioxide shortage, which is crucial for the food industry, unless Iran and the United States reach an agreement to reopen the vital waterway.
The report referred to officials considering the "worst case plausible scenario" in an exercise called "Exercise Turnstone".
This scenario was based on a simulation of a situation in June where navigation through the strait remained limited and no permanent peace agreement had been reached.
British Business Secretary Peter Kyle reassured citizens that the government is "doing its best in this regard".
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The American-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28th led the Islamic Republic to close the strait.
A carbon dioxide shortage could affect pork and chicken products in many countries, as this gas is used in the slaughtering process.
It is also used to extend the shelf life of canned meats, baked goods, salads, and in brewing beer.
However, Kyle clarified that gas supplies are "not a source of concern" for Britain at this time.
He told Sky News, "If there are any changes to these matters, I will inform the public beforehand so that we can be prepared."
He added, "But for now, people should continue their lives as usual and enjoy their beer, meats, and salads."
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Kyle mentioned that after the outbreak of the Iranian war, the government restarted a bioethanol plant that produces carbon dioxide in an effort to boost the UK's supplies of this gas.
He also noted that carbon dioxide is also used in MRI imaging, water purification, and civilian nuclear energy.
