Boba Shortage in the U.S.

By: Jennifer Lee

Recently, in tea and snack shops, there has been a sign saying boba shortage. I was curious about why there was a boba shortage and did some searches online. Boba tea, also known as bubble tea, originated from Taiwan. This drink has spread throughout the world and is now enjoyed by people all around the world. However, shipping backlogs spell bad news for boba lovers as the shipping time for boba, and other goods, are being significantly delayed. These delays can be attributed to bad weather, increased demand, and issues caused by the pandemic. Some shops have already ran out of boba and others only have a few months left of boba. Boba Guys, a boba tea company, say that it could take months for the shortage to be over. Since most boba comes from Taiwan, a recent drought there has also decreased the production of boba. While some companies make their own boba, the tapioca starch needed to make it comes from Thailand and the supply of it has also been delayed. To lessen the impact of the boba shortage, tea shop owners are encouraging their customers to try out other flavors and toppings.