They were all out of Lake Perch last night at the local Michigan restaurant we frequent, so we ordered the shrimp instead, only to find out they didn't have any shrimp either! Disease has ravaged key shrimp farms in Asia, reducing supplies, while warmer Atlantic waters have dramatically boosted lobster populations.
CNN Money reports here:
Shrimp prices are skyrocketing to all-time highs, amid a disease that's plaguing the three largest prawn producers: Thailand, China and Vietnam. White shrimp prices are nearing $6 a pound, up 56% from a year ago, according to an Urner Barry index. ... As of August, the average 4 oz. lobster tail cost $13.25, according to Urner Barry. That still costs more than 2 pounds of shrimp, but it's the lowest price in 11 years, as warmer water and fewer predators have led to an abundant supply of lobsters.
