SHOPS and pubs could start running out of some food and drink items as soon as this weekend, as Ministers are poised to intervene to help businesses.

Supplies of the gas are now running so low that it is feared that production of items which are made and packaged using carbon dioxide could cease within days.

These include fizzy drinks, including beer, which are injected with CO2, as well as meat, poultry, salads, ready meals and long life bread, which are all packaged using the gas.

Many manufacturers have been relying on their crisis reserves of CO2 for at least two days, sources said. This means if the shortage is not resolved, production would suddenly cease.

It comes just as the continued warm weather in Britain and the World Cup has led to a surge in demand for food and fizzy drinks.