Banana shortage hits Australian supermarkets as shoppers struggle to find popular fruit

Australian shoppers have been left puzzled by empty banana shelves at supermarkets as supply shortages hit the popular fruit.

Bananas have been listed as “out of stock” at some Woolworths stores across the country, with availability fluctuating across locations and days.

Even when bananas are available, some shoppers have noticed unusually green fruit on display.

Woolworths has acknowledged the supply disruption in notices displayed at its stores, warning customers to expect limited stock throughout October.

“Cooler weather across key growing regions in FNQ has slowed the growth of Cavendish Bananas,” the notice reads.

“Expect limited displays in October, with supply returning to normal by November.”

The notices have been displayed since October 2 and are marked for national display until October 27.

A Woolworths spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au the chain was proud to work with local farmers.

“Every single banana sold in our stores is 100 per cent Australian-grown,” the spokesperson said.

“We are privileged to support our local industry and continue to work closely with our suppliers to deliver great local produce to the millions of customers who shop with us every week.”

But the shortage appears to extend beyond Woolworths, with shoppers reporting similar experiences at Coles and ALDI.

One Melbourne shopper took to Reddit on Sunday to ask whether Australia was experiencing a banana shortage.

“Been to local ALDI, Woolies and Coles, zero stock on every store I have been (to),” the shopper wrote.

Others shared similar experiences.

“No bananas in Geelong,” one person commented on Wednesday.

“We can’t find any either!! Melbourne!” another wrote on Tuesday.

Some shoppers also noticed changes in the appearance of the bananas that were available.

“I noticed a lot of green bananas on shelves in Woolworths this week, really green,” one person said.

Another commenter suggested the shortage was linked to weather conditions in Queensland, claiming bananas were being distributed before they had fully ripened.

Meanwhile, a Coles shopper shared a photo on Facebook showing just one banana remaining on a supermarket shelf.

“Coles really needs to change this sign, Bananas implies plural,” they joked.

Industry sources indicated the shortage was temporary, driven by cooler-than-usual spring temperatures that have slowed banana growth, coupled with strong demand.

Supplies are expected to improve in the coming weeks.