Sweden Faces Meat Supply Shortages Amid Long-Term Impact of Droughts

Sweden is experiencing a significant meat shortage in 2025 due to past droughts and supply chain issues.

Key Points

  • • Sweden is facing a significant meat shortage during the summer of 2025.
  • • The shortage is attributed to the 2018 drought and high prices affecting livestock farmers.
  • • Some retailers have managed to maintain supply through extra efforts.
  • • Experts emphasize the need for solutions to the ongoing challenges in the meat supply chain.

Swedish grocery stores are facing significant meat shortages during the summer of 2025, with many meat counters reported empty. The primary causes of this shortage trace back to a severe drought in 2018, coupled with persistently high prices that have adversely affected livestock farmers over the years. Viggo Meredith, a representative from Köttkompaniet in Stockholm, highlights the struggles of suppliers in maintaining usual meat quantities, indicating broader challenges within the Swedish meat supply chain. Despite these complications, Köttkompaniet has managed to keep their meat displays stocked with lamb, beef, pork, and various sausages, although it has required more effort than in typical circumstances. Meredith emphasizes the urgency of addressing these shortages and finding viable solutions, as they reflect the long-term effects of environmental challenges and economic pressures on Swedish agriculture.