Researchers at Cranfield University have launched an innovative study examining the resilience of supply chains by focusing on the intricate logistics behind one of the United Kingdom’s most beloved dishes, chicken tikka masala. This research arrives at a crucial time as global supply chains face challenges from extreme weather, cyber-attacks, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions.
Exploring the Supply Chain of Chicken Tikka Masala
The study aims to unpack the complexities of the curry industry, shedding light on how various factors impact the availability and quality of ingredients essential for making chicken tikka masala. The investigation highlights how disruptions in supply chains can affect not just the food industry but also the broader economy.
According to the researchers, the supply chain for chicken tikka masala encompasses a diverse array of suppliers, from farmers producing spices and poultry to logistics companies responsible for transportation. The study emphasizes that even minor disruptions at any point in this supply chain can lead to significant challenges for restaurants and consumers alike.
Impact of Global Challenges on Local Dishes
The analysis reveals that the challenges faced in 2025 have heightened concerns over food security and supply chain efficiency. For instance, extreme weather events, which have been increasing in frequency, threaten agricultural production, while cyber-attacks on logistics firms have raised alarms about data security and operational reliability.
Additionally, tariffs imposed on imports can escalate costs for businesses reliant on foreign ingredients. The research provides a detailed examination of how these elements collectively impact the price and availability of chicken tikka masala, a dish that has become a symbol of multiculturalism in the UK.
In conducting this research, the team from Cranfield University utilized a combination of quantitative data analysis and qualitative interviews with stakeholders across the supply chain. This comprehensive approach offers valuable insights into the interconnected nature of modern supply chains and the specific vulnerabilities faced by the food industry.
As the study progresses, the researchers aim to propose strategies to enhance resilience within the supply chain, ensuring that beloved dishes like chicken tikka masala remain accessible to consumers. These recommendations could provide a framework for other sectors grappling with similar issues.
Overall, the work at Cranfield University underscores the importance of understanding supply chain dynamics in an increasingly complex global environment, highlighting how even a simple dish can illustrate broader economic realities.
