Shipping Disruptions and Cyber Risks in U.S. Agriculture

Times are uncertain, especially with the war in the Middle East. At the time of writing this, gas prices have already increased. But we should look at another issue: supply chains are potentially expecting more than just hiccups, and we are facing unknown challenges.

We can’t control the world — but we can control our pantries, our small cash reserves, and our community connections. We don’t indulge in fearmongering; instead, we champion readiness and strive to sift through the noise of propaganda to deliver you the truth.

We typically sprinkle humor like confetti, but let’s face it—what’s unfolding in the world isn’t exactly a laugh riot. Still, we might toss in a quip or two, just to keep things from spiraling into total doom and gloom. After all, we’ve got to stay afloat, even if it feels like we’re paddling in a sea of chaos.

WHAT MAY HAPPEN

We want to inform readers of potential scenarios and challenges, recognizing that these outcomes are not guaranteed, but we must consider them in our efforts to be prepared.

In the first week of a disruption due to the War in the Middle East, the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal are seeing disruptions. Oil and gas prices in the United States are already increasing. Around 20–25% of global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, and any interruption would quickly ripple through markets, pushing up gasoline and diesel prices.

It is also being reported that exporters from India and Europe are facing increased shipping fees and insurance expenses, along with extended delivery times, especially on routes between India and Europe and the United States. And that is barely touching the surface. There is a lot going on.

FERTILIZER & AGRICULTURAL SUPPLIES

One of the more important issues: Refineries that rely on imported crude could face shortages or higher costs. At the same time, fertilizer imports, including phosphate and potash used extensively in U.S. agriculture, would be delayed, affecting planting and crop management nationwide.

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WE SUGGEST ONE OF THE TWO SEED BANKS

Of course, we have the bigger one—because who doesn’t want their garden to feel like a botanical competition?

POTENTIAL CYBER ATTACKS

Christian (from the video above) explains that experts are raising concerns about the possibility of cyberattacks on U.S. critical infrastructure in response to tensions in Iran. While attention often focuses on the power grid or financial systems, food production is also considered a potential vulnerability.

Government agencies have conducted exercises to explore how cyber incidents could disrupt agricultural operations, which rely heavily on digital systems for distribution, processing, and logistics. Disruptions from malware, ransomware, or other cyber incidents could slow operations, affect delivery schedules, or temporarily limit access to information.

Although there is no certainty that such attacks will occur, these scenarios highlight potential vulnerabilities and the important role cybersecurity plays in maintaining stable U.S. food and agricultural supply chains.

A Check Point study indicates that the agriculture sector has seen a significant rise in cyberattacks, with a 101% increase globally in the past year, making it the most affected industry. In the U.S., attacks jumped by 38%.

Recent cyber incidents in the U.S. impacted Ahold Delhaize USA, causing inventory shortages at Stop & Shop, and led to the shutdown of United Natural Foods’ online platform.

WE SUGGEST STARTING YOUR OWN GARDEN

With spring approaching, now is the ideal moment to consider starting your own garden. We strongly recommend purchasing fertilizer without delay, as prices are poised to increase significantly in the near future. Support us by buying your seeds from the links above.

WHAT IS A SEED BANK

A Seed Bank is your own personal source for seeds designed to be used in the event seeds can no longer be purchased on the open market or in the event seed supplies are severely restricted.

Storing seeds helps protect individuals and communities against catastrophic events such as rising food prices, natural disasters, food shortages, diseases and/or war.

A Seed Bank is a collection of non-hybrid & open-pollinated seeds that can be stored for multiple years and used in the event of an emergency.

ALL THE SEEDS IN OUR LINKS ARE NON-GMO

The supplier doesn’t touch or deal with anything that has been genetically modified.

They have signed the Safe Seed Pledge and work very hard to ensure all seeds are 100% Non-Genetically Modified (Non-GMO).