Avocados
Avocados have become a beloved staple in American kitchens, but their future on your plate is now uncertain. With the United States relying on Mexico for nearly 80% of its avocados, any disruption in trade is a big deal. In 2021, the Trump administration’s tough stance on Mexican goods led to tariffs as high as 25% on avocados. This sudden cost spike made a significant dent in both grocery stores and restaurants, forcing many to cut back on avocado offerings. Fans of guacamole and avocado toast have already started to see prices rise and portions shrink. According to the Hass Avocado Board, these tariffs could eventually push avocados out of reach for many families. The ripple effect is also being felt by farmers and truck drivers on both sides of the border. If these tariffs continue or worsen, seeing avocados regularly in your kitchen could become a rare luxury.
Soybeans
Soybeans, often overlooked, are one of the most vital crops affected by the trade war, especially due to China’s retaliatory tariffs. In 2018, China slapped a 25% tariff on American soybeans, causing exports to plummet by billions of dollars. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, American soybean production dropped by 19% in 2021 compared to previous years. This sharp decline has sent shockwaves through the farming community, with many farmers reporting devastating financial losses. Products like tofu, soy milk, and even animal feed have all become more expensive and less available. Grocery shelves that once overflowed may soon look sparse. Consumers might feel the crunch not just in the produce aisle, but in a wide range of everyday foods. If trade tensions continue, soybeans could join the growing list of foods vanishing from American tables.
Cheese
Cheese lovers may already be noticing a difference when shopping for their favorite wedges and wheels. The Trump administration’s tariffs on European cheese—especially from France, Italy, and Switzerland—reached 25% in 2020. These tariffs have made imported cheeses like brie, gouda, and parmesan much pricier and less accessible. The International Dairy Foods Association has reported declines in cheese imports, predicting a drop in U.S. cheese consumption by as much as 5%. Specialty cheese shops are struggling to keep their shelves stocked, and many restaurants have scaled back on cheese-heavy dishes. American producers simply can’t fill the gap left by these high-quality European imports. If the trade war drags on, the selection and affordability of cheese could shrink dramatically, leaving cheese boards looking a lot emptier.
Wine
Wine aficionados are facing a sobering reality as imported European wines become more scarce and expensive. In 2019, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on wines from France, Germany, and Spain, causing import volumes to drop by 20% as reported by the Wine Institute. Retailers and restaurants have struggled to absorb these price hikes, often passing the costs on to consumers or reducing their selections. This has made it harder for casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike to enjoy their favorite bottles. Domestic wineries are also caught in the crossfire, as they lose ground in overseas markets due to retaliatory tariffs. The landscape of wine in America is changing, with many favorite labels disappearing from the shelves. For many, the days of affordable imported wines may soon be a memory.
Seafood
Seafood has been a significant casualty of the U.S.-China trade war, particularly when it comes to shrimp, crab, and various fish. In 2019, a 25% tariff was placed on seafood imported from China, dramatically raising costs for American consumers and businesses. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. seafood imports from China fell by 30% after these tariffs took effect. This has led to shortages of popular seafood items in supermarkets and restaurants. American fishermen have also been hurt, losing access to lucrative Chinese markets for their catches. The price of seafood dishes at restaurants has climbed, making them an occasional treat rather than a regular choice. The situation remains tense, and if the trade war continues, seafood could become a much rarer sight on dinner tables across the country.
Nuts
Nuts, especially almonds and pistachios, are feeling the squeeze as a result of increased tariffs on exports to China. China, once a top market for American almonds, slapped a 10% tariff on them in 2018, which led to a 40% drop in exports by 2020 according to the California Almond Board. With fewer nuts leaving the country, prices paid to farmers have dropped, resulting in lower profits and even crop losses. This has created a ripple effect, making nuts more expensive and less available on supermarket shelves. Snackers and bakers alike are noticing the difference, with classics like trail mix and nutty desserts becoming pricier. If trade tensions remain unresolved, the American nut industry—once a global powerhouse—could see its products gradually vanish from everyday use. The crunch in your favorite snack might soon be a thing of the past.
Chocolate
Chocolate, that sweet comfort for millions, is also under threat due to shifting trade policies and tariffs on cocoa imports. Tariffs on cocoa beans from key producers like Ivory Coast and Ghana reached 15% in 2020, causing chocolate prices to rise. The National Confectioners Association has warned that if tariffs persist, U.S. chocolate consumption could fall by up to 10%. American chocolate makers, who depend on imported cocoa, are finding it harder to keep their products affordable and plentiful. Classic chocolate bars and specialty treats may become less available or more expensive, hitting consumers right in their sweet tooth. For some, the choice could soon be between paying more or going without. The beloved chocolate bar, a symbol of indulgence, may no longer be an everyday luxury.
Coffee
For millions, coffee is an essential start to the day, but the trade war has threatened even this daily ritual. Tariffs on coffee beans from Brazil and Colombia have driven up costs by as much as 10% in 2021, directly impacting retail prices. The National Coffee Association has already noted a dip in consumption as a result. Many coffee shops have responded by raising prices or shrinking cup sizes, while grocery stores report thinner selections. Farmers in coffee-producing countries are also hurting, as they lose access to the lucrative U.S. market. The disruption of supply chains could mean that your favorite blend is either more expensive or simply unavailable. If tariffs continue, the comforting aroma of morning coffee might become much rarer in American homes.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are crucial to a healthy diet, but they’re not immune to the trade war’s effects. In 2019, tariffs on produce from Mexico, which supplies a huge portion of America’s fruits and vegetables, reached 25%. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, imports dropped by 15% in 2020, leading to shortages and price increases. Shoppers have noticed higher prices on staples like tomatoes, berries, and peppers. Restaurants and school cafeterias are struggling to keep meals both fresh and affordable. Farmers who export their crops are also facing tough times, as foreign buyers look elsewhere. Without a resolution, the American produce aisle could become a lot less colorful and varied.
Rice
Rice, a dietary staple for many families, is facing supply challenges because of tariffs targeting imports from Thailand and Vietnam. In 2018, tariffs rose to 25%, causing retail prices to spike and export volumes to tumble. The U.S. Rice Producers Association reported a 30% drop in exports by 2020, squeezing both producers and consumers. Households that rely on rice for affordable meals are feeling the pinch, as are restaurants and food banks. The supply chain disruptions have also affected rice farmers, who are struggling to compete internationally. With these pressures, rice may become less accessible, hitting vulnerable communities hardest. A once-reliable cupboard staple could soon become a luxury.
Sugar
Sugar prices are climbing as a result of new tariffs on imports from Mexico, the U.S.’s largest sugar supplier. In 2020, the U.S. imposed a 15% tariff on Mexican sugar, causing retail prices to surge. According to the U.S. Sugar Association, these higher costs could lead to a drop in sugar consumption as people look for cheaper alternatives or simply buy less. Bakers, candy makers, and soft drink companies have all warned of higher product prices and shrinking profit margins. Shoppers are already noticing costlier sweets and desserts. The longer tariffs stay in place, the more pronounced these changes will become. Sugar, once a cheap treat, may soon be a rare indulgence for many.
Corn
Corn is everywhere in the American food system, from cereals to sodas and beyond, but it’s now at risk. In 2018, China imposed a 25% tariff on U.S. corn, slashing exports by half according to the Department of Agriculture. This has left American farmers with unsold crops and shrinking incomes, with losses topping $1 billion a year for the industry. The ripple effects are hitting everyone from tortilla makers to snack food manufacturers. Prices for corn-based products are rising, and some items are already disappearing from shelves. If these trade barriers persist, corn could become a much rarer—and pricier—ingredient.
Chicken
Chicken, the go-to protein for millions of Americans, could soon be harder to find or afford. In 2019, tariffs on Brazilian chicken imports hit 25%, sending shockwaves through the poultry market. The National Chicken Council has warned that if costs continue to climb, U.S. chicken consumption could drop as families cut back. Supermarkets have raised prices, and some restaurants have trimmed portion sizes or menu options. American poultry farmers are also struggling to compete in foreign markets due to retaliatory tariffs. The supply chain is stretched thin, and shortages could soon be the new normal. For many, chicken dinners may become a rare treat instead of a weekly staple.
Pork
Pork is another household favorite feeling the heat from trade disputes, especially tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico. In 2020, tariffs reached 15%, leading to a sharp increase in prices and declining consumption, according to the National Pork Producers Council. Farmers have seen their export markets dwindle, with some reporting severe financial strain. Grocery shoppers have noticed bacon and pork chops getting more expensive or less available. Restaurants are reconsidering pork-heavy menu items due to these rising costs. If the trade war continues, pork could become a special-occasion food rather than an everyday choice. The traditional American breakfast might never look the same.
Olive Oil
Olive oil, a kitchen essential for cooking and salads, is now at risk due to tariffs on imports from Spain and Italy. In 2019, the tariff jumped to 25%, leading to a 20% drop in imports, according to the North American Olive Oil Association. The price of premium olive oil on store shelves has soared, causing some consumers to switch to lower-quality alternatives or use less. Restaurants and home cooks alike are rethinking recipes that rely on olive oil. Domestic producers haven’t been able to make up the difference, leaving a noticeable gap in supply. If tariffs remain, the golden bottle on your kitchen counter may become a rare sight. Olive oil’s future on American plates is more uncertain than ever.
