Ready to stockpile groceries? Check out the list of all groceries to buy before tariffs skyrocket!
It’s 2025, we’re living in America, and somehow we all wake up feeling that something will happen today as well. The fact that everything is going to have super expensive prices is worrying for the entire nation.
China is now subject to an even higher tariff of 125%, up from the initially planned 104%, despite President Trump’s unexpected 90-day pause on many new reciprocal tariffs announced this week. Imports from other Asian nations, such as South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam, are still subject to tariffs. What does this mean for us, the customers?
Well, most prices will go “boom,” and we will spend more than we should on basic grocery items. To help you in this matter, we’ve made a list of groceries to buy before the prices skyrocket.
Green tea (and other herbal infusions)
Green tea is known for its beneficial properties it has become a staple in almost every American pantry. Since most tea from Asian countries, especially green and jasmine blends, will soon become pricier, we advise anyone who enjoys herbal infusions in general to stock up.
Canned mushrooms
Canned mushrooms are among the groceries to buy before their price rises considerably. While fresh mushrooms are still grown on American land and will still be available, China supplies the bulk of them, especially the canned ones, which are the most affordable, together with the frozen ones.
Prices will probably increase as a result of the increase in import taxes. So if you know you and your family cook with mushrooms often, we suggest paying a visit to the nearest supermarket and stocking up on a couple of cans.
Instant ramen and noodle cups
They’re convenient, simple to prepare, and, most importantly, pretty affordable too. This is true for the time being! Since most of these noodles are produced in Vietnam or China, if you enjoy eating ramen or noodle cups in general as a snack or as a full meal, we suggest you add them to the list of groceries to buy before the prices aren’t be as friendly as they are now.
Avocados
You guessed it: Mexico is the source of 90% of the avocados exported to the United States. Since the guacamole will cost extra, you might want to be selective about who you invite to Taco Tuesday. Avocados are best fresh, but freezing them keeps them fresh.
Meat
Meat is already expensive, so imagine how it will be after the tariffs change! If you and your family are eating meat at every meal, we recommend putting it on the list of groceries to buy. Set aside freezer space for your preferred cuts to be stored safely.
Garlic
China is the primary source of garlic on American shelves, despite the common belief that California is the garlic capital. Since garlic prices may rise sharply as a result of the tariff pressures, we recommend stocking up on garlic, especially if you use it regularly in your meals.
Plastic-wrapped packaged meals
The food from the package is usually made in the U.S., but usually, the packaging components, like the plastic film, usually come from South Korea and China, which means that any pre-made meals sold in plastic packaging might have increased prices.
So instead of buying them, you might want to go for homemade food. It’s cheaper and healthier too!
Sugar
Are you on a roll with baking goodies for your family? We have some bad news for you! Mexico and Canada are the biggest suppliers to the United States. Consider getting that XXL bag of sugar on your next shopping trip because even if you don’t bake regularly, you may still want to sweeten your morning coffee for some energy spikes.
Cereal grains
You may be surprised to know that plenty of cereal grains like oats, barley, and wheat are exported from Canada. So, before the prices skyrocket, it would be wonderful to grab a few more cereal bags to store in your pantry. Are you a fan of oat milk? Since it might also become pricier, put it on the list of groceries to buy.
Frozen cod
Depending on how much of a fish fan you are, if frozen cod is frequently in your shopping cart, you might want to stock up on a few more next time you go to the supermarket. Fish nuggets and fillets may soon become much more expensive due to the 104% tariff.
Both fresh and frozen produce
The fact that fresh produce has huge prices isn’t exactly news, but the fact that most of the frozen veggies and fruits are going to be expensive upsets us very much. If you usually cook with frozen veggies, and/or fruits, especially the ones that come from Mexico (tomatoes, spinach, strawberries, raspberries, and avocados), it wouldn’t be a bad idea to buy more than usual and store them in your freezer.
Do you plan on buying more groceries on your next trip? Then you might also grab some heavy-duty reusable shopping bags. They are extremely useful! Easy to clean and super versatile, this pack of 10 bags from NERUB will be your friend in need. This is a brand-new model with a reinforced bottom and handles and a larger capacity (15″ H x 13″ L x 10″ W). My favorite thing about them? They come in a plethora of colors to suit your mood or your outfit! Order yours from Amazon right away!
Related article to check: Top 8 Things Americans Waste Money On (and How to Stop!).
