Christmas cheer is under threat this year, and it’s not just about supply chain issues. A looming strike at a key Guinness packaging plant in Belfast could lead to a significant shortage of Guinness Zero, the popular alcohol-free stout, just as the festive season hits full swing.
The dispute centers on pay, with the Unite union accusing drinks giant Diageo of prioritizing profits over its workforce. Despite being one of the world’s most profitable beverage companies, Diageo has, according to Unite, failed to offer a “decent” deal to its employees. This has sparked industrial action poised to disrupt production lines at a critical moment.
Negotiations initially led to a postponement of the planned December 8th strike, but talks ultimately broke down. The new strike date, December 12th, brings the disruption even closer to peak Christmas demand. Union leaders are demanding management return to the negotiating table with a fairer offer.
The Belfast site isn’t just any facility; it’s Diageo’s largest production hub for Guinness Zero. While Diageo insists contingency plans are in place to minimize disruption to Guinness supplies overall, the impact on the alcohol-free version could be substantial. They maintain a belief that continued dialogue is the best path forward.
But the concerns don’t stop there for fans of the “black stuff.” A surprising detail has emerged regarding a popular companion to Guinness: the Baby Guinness. This seemingly innocent shot, a layered combination of coffee liqueur and Irish cream, may be off-limits for millions of consumers.
The issue lies within a key ingredient – Kahlúa, a widely used coffee liqueur. Pernod Ricard, Kahlúa’s parent company, has revealed that bone char filtration is used by one of its sugar suppliers. This process, involving animal byproducts, renders the drink unsuitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
While Kahlúa was previously considered acceptable for vegetarians, a change in understanding of the sugar refinement process has led to a revised classification. Current estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK adhere to vegetarian or vegan diets, making this a significant concern for many pub-goers.
Fortunately, alternatives exist. Tia Maria is a certified vegan coffee liqueur, and Baileys Almande offers a dairy-free, vegan-friendly option. Next time you’re ordering a Baby Guinness, a simple question to the bartender could ensure your drink aligns with your dietary choices.
Whether it’s a potential Guinness Zero drought or hidden animal products in a favorite shot, this holiday season presents unexpected challenges for those who enjoy a festive drink. Awareness and informed choices may be key to navigating these surprising twists.
