Britain’s drinks and food industry raised the alarm over the availability of carbon dioxide; after soaring energy prices forced a major producer to pause its operations.

CF Fertilisers UK took a decision to temporarily halt ammonia production at its Billingham plant; which produces CO2 as a byproduct that is use to put fizz into beer and stun poultry and pigs before slaughter; due to high natural gas and carbon prices.

A pub association boss said the decision “couldn’t be worse” as other strains on supply chains.

“This decision raises serious concerns for the sustainable supply of CO2 to the brewing and pub industry,” Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association said.

“A guaranteed supply is essential for operations across pub and brewing businesses.”