When Ingredient Costs Spike, What Happens Next?
Let’s say you’re sourcing a core input—maybe a starch, protein, or oil—and pricing suddenly jumps. Not just 2% or 3%, but enough to throw off your margin assumptions. It’s not a theoretical situation. It happens every day across manufacturing lines.
A purchasing manager gets the update on a Tuesday. By Thursday, they’re scrambling to find alternatives that don’t require relabeling, re-testing, or a lengthy spec review.
Here’s what the teams who stay ahead usually have in place:
A shortlist of alternative inputs that meet performance requirements
A sourcing partner who can quickly validate spec and availability
A logistics plan that accounts for flexibility in volume or delivery format
Real-World Moves That Make the Difference
In one case, a food manufacturer blended in a fiber-based co-product to stretch their primary ingredient without changing texture or nutrition. Another swapped to a regional supplier for a short-term bridge shipment that kept production moving.
These aren't hero moves—they're smart, proactive decisions that protect continuity.
And the truth is: these pivots are rarely figured out in the moment.
They come from building the right relationships before the pressure hits.
Cerco’s Role in This?
We don’t just sell ingredients. We help build playbooks.
When the pressure’s on, we’re there with options—backed by compliance, verified specs, and sourcing intelligence that keeps your team confident and your line running.
Ready to Build Your “What If” Plan?
Let’s talk about your current sourcing pressure points, and how to prepare before the next price swing catches you flat-footed.
Start the Conversation, and contact our team to explore flexible strategies.
