Panic buying of toilet paper has resurfaced across America, reminiscent of the early days of the pandemic. However, according to CNN, the current shortages are not directly linked to the major port strike that began on Tuesday.

Social media is awash with reports and images of empty shelves where toilet paper and paper towels should be. One X user wrote, “They cleaned out the toilet paper at my local Walmart in Virginia. Toilet paper hoarding 2.0!”

Strike Unlikely to Affect Toilet Paper Supply

Despite these concerns, the strike at ports from Maine to Texas will have minimal impact on toilet paper supply. Over 90% of U.S. toilet paper consumption comes from domestic factories, with the remainder primarily imported from Canada and Mexico via rail or truck.

The American Forest and Paper Association expressed concerns about the strike’s potential impact on exports to foreign markets, not imports. Ironically, the strike could potentially lead to a surplus of toilet paper rather than a shortage.

The current situation appears to be driven by fear and memories of the 2020 shortages, rather than actual supply issues. While the port strike may cause shortages of certain perishable goods, toilet paper is not among them.

Bananas Face Potential Shortage

One product that could be affected is bananas. Nearly 100% of U.S. banana supply relies on imports, with over half coming through the striking ports. Unlike toilet paper, bananas have a short shelf life, making it difficult to stockpile in advance of the strike.

Experts emphasize that toilet paper hoarding is unnecessary. Any toilet paper purchased now will likely last until the next round of panic buying, even if it occurs years from now.

Read more at CNN.