Imported Fruits Are Getting Pricier
One of the most immediate impacts of tariffs is visible in the fruit aisle. Many favorite fruits—like blueberries, avocados, and bananas—are often imported. When new tariffs are imposed on countries that export these fruits, it’s not just the farmers who feel the pinch; it’s you, the shopper. For example, after the 2018 trade disputes between the U.S. and Mexico, avocado prices in the U.S. spiked by nearly 50% at certain points. This means your guacamole might cost more, and you might even grab fewer bananas for your morning smoothie. The higher prices are not just a temporary blip; they sometimes stick around, especially when tariffs stay in place for long periods. Retailers often pass these costs directly to consumers, making imported fruits less accessible for people who rely on them for healthy snacks. Tariffs can also lead to shortages, as some suppliers might stop exporting to countries where tariffs make their products too expensive to compete.
Snack Foods Could Disappear
Tariffs don’t just affect main meals—they can change what snacks are available too. When tariffs were placed on European products, beloved snacks like Swiss chocolate, French cookies, and Italian biscotti became more expensive and less common on supermarket shelves. In 2022, American imports of European cheeses fell by almost 15% due to increased tariffs. For snack lovers, this can mean fewer options and higher prices for the treats they love. Some smaller niche brands may even vanish completely because they can’t afford to absorb the tariff costs or keep up with bigger competitors. This shift can lead shoppers to try new, domestic brands, but it also means saying goodbye to a few favorites. The disappearance of these snacks is an invisible loss—one you notice only when you reach for them and find the shelf empty.
Breakfast Staples Are Not Immune
Tariffs have reached into the breakfast table as well, impacting everything from orange juice to oats. For instance, after the U.S. imposed tariffs on Canadian oats, cereal makers faced higher costs, which trickled down to consumers. The price of orange juice also jumped when tariffs were levied on imports from Brazil, the world’s largest orange juice exporter. As a result, some breakfast foods have become noticeably more expensive or have shrunk in size. Many manufacturers now use smaller packages to keep prices the same, a move known as “shrinkflation.” This subtle change can be frustrating, especially for families who rely on these staples every day. It’s clear that tariffs can hit where it hurts most—right at the start of your day.
Restaurant Menus Are Changing
Tariffs don’t just affect what you buy at the store—they also shape what you see at your favorite restaurant. When tariffs were imposed on seafood from China, many U.S. restaurants had to rethink their menus. Some swapped out imported shrimp and fish for local alternatives, while others simply raised their prices. According to the National Restaurant Association, menu prices increased by an average of 7% in 2023, with tariffs being one of the contributing factors. Chefs have gotten creative, but the experience for diners can be mixed. You might notice fewer international dishes or find that your favorite sushi roll now uses a different type of fish. These changes are subtle but real, affecting everything from fine dining to fast food.
Cheese Lovers Are Feeling the Pinch
Cheese is another food hit hard by tariffs, especially imported varieties. When the U.S. and the European Union traded tariffs, iconic cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Roquefort, and Gruyère saw price surges of up to 35%. Specialty cheese shops reported a decline in sales as customers balked at the new prices. Some shops started offering more domestic options, but the unique flavors and textures of imported cheeses can’t always be replicated. According to the U.S. Dairy Export Council, cheese imports dropped by about 10% in 2022 alone. This has shifted the market, with many consumers settling for less variety in their cheese platters and recipes.
Meat Prices Are on the Rise
Tariffs have also made meat more expensive. During trade wars, countries often retaliate by targeting key exports—like American beef and pork. In 2018, China and Mexico slapped tariffs on U.S. pork, causing prices to fluctuate wildly. American farmers struggled with oversupply at home and lost markets abroad. At the same time, the cost of imported meat—like Australian lamb—jumped as new tariffs took effect. These price increases are showing up in grocery stores and restaurants alike, with many families forced to cut back on their meat purchases. The ripple effect has even led some people to explore alternative proteins or plant-based diets.
Vegetable Choices Are Narrowing
Tariffs are shrinking the variety of vegetables on store shelves. The U.S., for example, imports a large share of its tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers from Mexico. When tariffs go up, less of these vegetables make it across the border, leading to higher prices and less selection. In 2022, tomato prices in the U.S. rose by almost 20% due to supply chain disruptions and new trade taxes. Many shoppers have switched to frozen or canned vegetables as fresh options become too pricey. While this is a practical solution, it changes the taste and nutrition profile of meals for millions.
Processed Foods Are Not Spared
Tariffs can also sneak into your pantry through processed foods. Items like pasta, canned fish, and olive oil often contain ingredients sourced from multiple countries. When tariffs are imposed on any part of the supply chain, the cost of the final product goes up. For example, in 2023, the price of canned tuna in the U.S. jumped by 8% after tariffs were applied to fish imports from Southeast Asia. Manufacturers sometimes respond by using lower-quality ingredients or smaller cans to keep prices stable. The end result is that your favorite pantry staples might taste a little different—or cost quite a bit more.
Wine and Spirits Are Getting Costlier
If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, tariffs might have already affected you. In 2020, the U.S. imposed tariffs on European wines and spirits, causing prices to surge by up to 25%. Wine importers reported a sharp drop in sales, and many restaurants scaled back their wine lists as a result. The Distilled Spirits Council noted that imports of Scotch whisky to the U.S. dropped by 35% after tariffs hit. For consumers, this means fewer choices and higher prices for imported drinks. Some people have switched to domestic wines, but others miss the unique flavors only found in bottles from abroad.
Frozen Foods Are Changing
Tariffs have crept into the frozen foods aisle as well. Many frozen meals, vegetables, and desserts rely on ingredients sourced from around the world. When tariffs are imposed on key components—like shrimp from Asia or berries from South America—the cost of these products rises. According to the American Frozen Food Institute, retail prices for frozen foods went up by nearly 9% in 2023, partly due to new tariffs. Manufacturers have responded by reformulating recipes or reducing portion sizes. This means the frozen pizza or berry mix you love might not taste quite the same, or you might get less for your money.
Baking Ingredients Are Affected
Home bakers are feeling the impact of tariffs, too. Key ingredients like flour, sugar, and vanilla are all affected by international trade. When tariffs were imposed on Mexican sugar, U.S. prices increased, leading to higher costs for everything from cakes to cookies. The cost of vanilla, much of which comes from Madagascar, has also fluctuated due to both tariffs and supply shortages. Many small bakeries and home cooks have had to adjust recipes or raise prices to cope. This makes home baking a little less sweet and a little more expensive for everyone.
Plant-Based Foods Face New Hurdles
Even the booming plant-based food sector is feeling the heat from tariffs. Many meat alternatives, like soy burgers and almond milk, depend on imported ingredients. When tariffs are applied to soybeans from South America or almonds from Australia, the cost of producing plant-based foods rises. In 2023, the price of plant-based meat alternatives in the U.S. increased by about 6%—partly due to higher costs for imported ingredients. This threatens to slow down the growth of a sector that is often seen as a healthier, more sustainable choice. For consumers, it means plant-based products could become less affordable and less available on store shelves.
