Taco Bell Faces Tortilla Crunch
By Aaron Back
It wasn't clear what caused Taco Bell's tortilla shortage. Unlike in "Idiocracy," it is unlikely that source crops are being watered with sports drinks. Photo: soe zeya tun/Reuters
In the low-IQ dystopian future depicted in the 2006 film "Idiocracy," the U.S. faces crop failures and a chronic shortage of what fictional President Comancho describes as "burrito coverings."
Creator Mike Judge has commented on some apparent similarities between our time and the world predicted by the movie, but even he might be struck by this summer's tortilla shortage at Taco Bell.
Outlets in various markets around the country are running short of the Mexican flatbread, several local and national media outlets have reported. Even for a fast-food chain famous for its large and varied menu, the loss of such a key ingredient hits hard as everything from burritos to quesadillas is affected.
It wasn't clear what caused the shortage. Unlike in "Idiocracy," it is unlikely that source crops are being watered with sports drinks.
In a statement, the company said it is working to address the shortages and encouraged customers to try other menu items such as the Power Menu Bowl or Cheesy Gordita Crunch. Taco shells made of Dorito chip material are also available. But if your favorite comes wrapped in a tortilla, you may be out of luck.