Brace Yourself—These 10 Foods Will Cost You More Due to Tariffs
Grocery prices are rising, and tariffs are a big reason why. Trade disputes have led to higher taxes on imported foods, which has a direct impact on everyday staples. But the impact doesn’t stop there. It also affects restaurants, food manufacturers, and supply chains.
Here are a few foods that have been hit the hardest—and why your grocery bill keeps climbing.
Avocados
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The U.S. imports around 90% of its avocados from Mexico, which means that it is heavily dependent on this trade. A 25% tariff on Mexican imports has pushed avocado prices higher. As a result, you might have to pay more for guacamole, avocado toast, and fresh avocados at the grocery store.
Rice
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Countries like India have placed export restrictions on rice and thus reduced global supply. This has led to price hikes for rice-based dishes. If you rely on rice as a meal staple, you will notice a significant cost increase at grocery stores and restaurants.
Strawberries
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Many strawberries sold in the U.S. come from Mexico, especially outside the summer season. A 25% tariff has made imports more expensive. Those who love fresh strawberries in smoothies, salads, or desserts should expect to pay more than before.
Beef
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China has imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. beef exports. This has forced producers to shift supply and increase prices in the domestic market. For all the beef steaks- and burger lovers out there, that’s definitely bad news. Restaurants have adjusted the prices on beef menus to make profits.
Pork
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Tariffs on U.S. pork exports to China and other countries have affected the market. Producers have fewer export opportunities, causing a surplus and increased production costs. This has led to higher pork prices for American consumers.
Soybeans
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Soybeans are a key ingredient in many foods. China, the largest buyer of U.S. soybeans, imposed tariffs and caused severe market instability. This price fluctuation affects not only soy-based products but also livestock feed, which can further increase meat prices.
Chicken
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The Chicken Tax–a 25 percent tariff on light trucks originally imposed on poultry trade–has created lasting trade tensions. Disputes with Europe and other regions have led to higher chicken prices in the U.S.
Seafood
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The U.S. seafood industry has lost major buyers due to an additional 10% tariff on U.S. aquatic products that has been imposed by China. Sushi, seafood platters, and fish fillets will all cost more now.
Cocoa
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Cocoa prices have increased due to climate issues in West Africa and trade policies. Ghana and Ivory Coast, the world’s top cocoa producers, have struggled with droughts and disease. These challenges, combined with tariffs, have made chocolate more expensive.
Corn
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Corn is commonly used in cereals, tortillas, and corn syrup. Unfortunately, something as simple and readily available as corn has experienced price fluctuations. Not just corn but all corn-based products now have a bigger price tag.
Orange Juice
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All the OJ lovers, be ready to spend a bigger amount on your same old orange juice. The combination of higher tariffs and bad weather has resulted in this change. Some trade policies have limited imports, while hurricanes and diseases have reduced U.S. orange production.
Eggs
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Egg prices have heavily increased due to avian flu outbreaks and trade restrictions. The U.S. egg supply has been affected by significantly higher price hikes. Restaurants have also adjusted prices on egg-based dishes.
Oats
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Oat prices are rising due to reduced planting and adverse weather conditions. A smaller oat supply has made products like oatmeal, granola, and oat milk more expensive. This isn’t looking good for those who prefer oats to be a part of their breakfast routine.
Fresh Tomatoes
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Just like avocados, the U.S. imports a large share of its fresh tomatoes from Mexico. Increased tariffs on imports have increased consumer prices and affected many foods, including salsa, pasta sauce, sandwiches, and salads. Even canned tomato products have seen cost increases.
Dairy Products
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Canada has high tariffs on dairy imports to protect its farmers. This has limited trade and led to higher prices for dairy products in the U.S. Items like milk, cheese, and butter are more expensive. Coffee lovers, bakers, and cheese enthusiasts are feeling the impact of these rising costs as well.