Avocados
Avocados have become a staple in many households, especially for those who love guacamole or toast. The U.S. imports nearly 90% of its avocados, with Mexico being the biggest supplier. If tariffs on Mexican produce increase, the price of avocados could skyrocket, making them a rare treat rather than an everyday food. In 2019, the average U.S. consumer ate about 8 pounds of avocados per year—this number could plummet if tariffs hit. Grocery stores might start limiting their stock, and restaurants could pull avocado-based dishes from their menus. The California avocado season is short and cannot meet the national demand alone. A tariff hike could make “avocado toast” a luxury item, not a breakfast staple.
Coffee
Coffee is the lifeblood of millions of Americans, but most coffee beans come from countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Vietnam. If tariffs are imposed on imported coffee, prices could rise dramatically, with some estimates suggesting a cup of coffee could cost up to 25% more. In 2022, the U.S. imported over $8 billion in coffee. Domestic production is almost non-existent, so there are few alternatives. The impact would hit not just at-home drinkers but also cafes and restaurants, potentially forcing some small businesses to close their doors. Coffee shortages or soaring costs could make your morning ritual much more expensive and far less accessible.
Bananas
Bananas are the most popular fruit in the U.S., with Americans eating an average of 27 pounds per person each year. Almost all bananas in the U.S. are imported from countries like Ecuador, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Tariffs on these imports would lead to sharp price increases, as there is virtually no domestic banana production. Bananas are often a go-to snack for children and athletes, but with higher prices, families may need to choose less nutritious alternatives. The banana industry is also vulnerable because it relies on just one variety—the Cavendish—making it even more susceptible to supply shocks.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a kitchen essential, especially for those who enjoy Mediterranean cuisine. The U.S. imports around 95% of its olive oil, mainly from Spain, Italy, and Greece. Recent trade disputes have already led to higher prices, and further tariffs could make olive oil far less affordable. According to USDA data, U.S. olive oil imports exceeded 350,000 metric tons in 2022. Domestic production, mostly in California, is tiny by comparison and cannot fill the gap. If tariffs hit hard, many households may have to switch to less healthy alternatives like vegetable oils.
Cheese
Cheese lovers may be in for a shock if tariffs are raised on European dairy products. Specialty cheeses from France, Italy, and Switzerland—think brie, parmesan, and gruyère—could become prohibitively expensive. In 2019, the U.S. imported about $1.5 billion worth of cheese, much of it from Europe. Tariffs imposed in the past have already led to price hikes of up to 25%. If new tariffs are added, your favorite imported cheese may disappear from grocery store shelves, or cost several times more than before. This would also impact restaurants and delis that rely on imported cheeses for their menus.
Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the world’s favorite treats, but the U.S. imports most of its cocoa beans from West Africa, particularly Ivory Coast and Ghana. Tariffs on these imports would lead to higher prices for chocolate bars, candies, and baked goods. In 2022, the U.S. imported more than $6 billion worth of chocolate and cocoa products. Domestic production cannot compensate for the shortfall, as cocoa trees do not grow well in the U.S. Consumers could see their favorite chocolate brands shrink in size or disappear entirely from shelves if tariffs become a reality.
Wine
Wine connoisseurs might find their favorite bottles missing if tariffs target European imports. The U.S. imports billions of dollars’ worth of wine every year, with France, Italy, and Spain being the top sources. In recent years, tariffs as high as 25% were placed on some European wines, leading to both price increases and shrinking selections. If new tariffs are added, imported wines could become luxury items, pushing casual drinkers to less desirable options. The American wine industry, while strong in California, cannot replace the diversity and tradition of European wines.
Seafood
Seafood such as shrimp, salmon, and tuna is largely imported from countries like China, Vietnam, and Thailand. In fact, more than 90% of the seafood consumed in the U.S. is imported. Tariffs on these products would have a dramatic effect on prices and availability. U.S. fisheries cannot meet current demand, and supply chains would be severely disrupted. Restaurants specializing in sushi or seafood could face closure, and consumers would have fewer healthy protein options. The ripple effects would also harm industries related to seafood processing and distribution.
Rice
Rice is a staple food for millions of Americans, but a significant portion—especially specialty varieties like basmati and jasmine—are imported from India, Thailand, and Vietnam. In 2022, the U.S. imported over a million metric tons of rice. Tariffs on these imports would make everyday dishes like stir-fry, curry, or sushi much more expensive. Domestic rice production focuses mainly on long-grain varieties, so supply would not match demand for specialty rices. Many families who rely on rice as a low-cost, nutritious staple could struggle to find affordable alternatives.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are found in everything from salads to sauces, but more than half of the fresh tomatoes eaten in the U.S. are imported from Mexico. Tariffs on Mexican produce have already led to price increases and shortages in recent years. In 2022, the U.S. imported over $2 billion worth of tomatoes. If tariffs rise sharply, the cost of pizza, pasta, and countless other dishes could spike. Domestic growers cannot meet year-round demand, especially in colder states, so consumers may see empty shelves or much higher prices.
Oranges and Orange Juice
Florida’s orange industry has been hit hard by disease and hurricanes, leading the U.S. to import more oranges and orange juice from Brazil and Mexico. In 2023, orange juice prices hit a record high due to poor harvests. Tariffs on imports would push prices even higher and could lead to shortages in stores. Many Americans start their day with a glass of orange juice, but this tradition could soon be out of reach for families if tariffs take hold. For schoolchildren and older adults who rely on vitamin C from this source, the loss would be especially significant.
Spices
Spices add flavor and excitement to everyday meals, but most are imported from countries like India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Black pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom are almost entirely sourced from abroad. In 2022, the U.S. imported more than $1 billion in spices. Tariffs on these imports would mean fewer options and much higher prices at the supermarket. Home cooks and restaurants could be forced to cut back on spices, making meals blander and less nutritious. The loss of affordable spices would also impact traditional dishes for families from diverse backgrounds.
Tea
Tea is another beloved beverage that is almost entirely imported, mainly from China, India, and Sri Lanka. The U.S. imported over $570 million in tea in 2022. If tariffs hit, prices could rise substantially, and popular brands might disappear from shelves. Specialty teas like matcha and chai would become luxury items. Tea shops and cafes could struggle to stay open, and consumers might have to switch to less desirable drinks. The cultural significance of tea for many immigrant communities would also be negatively affected.
Almonds
Almonds are a healthy snack and a key ingredient in plant-based diets, but the U.S. exports most of its almonds and imports many almond-based products, like almond milk and marzipan, from Europe and Asia. Tariffs on these imports would increase prices for consumers and disrupt food manufacturers. In 2022, the U.S. imported over $200 million in almond products. With plant-based eating on the rise, any disruption in almond product supply could affect millions of people looking for dairy alternatives. Schools and hospitals that rely on almond milk for dietary needs might also face shortages.
Beef
While the U.S. is a major beef producer, it still imports nearly 3 billion pounds of beef annually, mostly from Canada, Mexico, and Australia. Tariffs on imported beef would raise prices for burgers, steaks, and processed meats. In 2023, beef prices were already at an all-time high due to drought and supply chain issues. Higher tariffs could make beef out of reach for many families, especially those on tight budgets. Fast food chains and restaurants could see costs soar, leading to smaller portions or price hikes on menus.
Butter
Butter is a baking and cooking staple, but the U.S. imports significant amounts from Ireland, New Zealand, and Europe. In 2022, the U.S. imported over 30,000 metric tons of butter. Tariffs could make imported butter a rare find and drive up prices for all butter products. For those who prefer European-style butter for its flavor and richness, this would be a major loss. Bakeries and restaurants would also struggle to maintain supply, potentially passing costs onto customers. The result could be fewer baked goods and less variety in stores.
