In 2025, the grocery aisle has become a battleground—and not just because of inflation. With new waves of import tariffs targeting popular food products from global partners like Mexico, Canada, and Europe, the price of everyday groceries is climbing fast. From tropical fruits to coffee and canned goods, the cost of feeding our families continues to rise. But here’s the good news: there’s a better, smarter way to shop that avoids many of the pitfalls of global trade tensions and supports our local community at the same time.

The Price Tag of Tariffs

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, “[t]ariffs and trade wars threaten our food security.” When countries respond to US trade policies by shifting trade alliances or adding tariffs of their own, American farmers lose export markets—and consumers face higher prices on imports.

A Food Business News analysis even predicts U.S. soybean growers may lose major markets to Brazil as international buyers pivot to avoid U.S. tariffs, causing oversupply and economic fallout here at home. When import tariffs make U.S. soybeans more expensive, foreign countries (like China or European nations) look for cheaper alternatives, such as soybeans from Brazil. In simpler terms: because of tariffs, U.S. farmers risk losing buyers to Brazil, which could flood the U.S. market with unsold soybeans. The result? Farmers with surplus crops and shrinking profits. Consumers with shrinking grocery budgets and fewer healthy options.

It’s a ripple effect—and it’s hitting where it hurts most: your wallet and your pantry.

What Foods Are Getting Hit Hardest by Tariffs?

If you’re feeling sticker shock at the grocery store, you’re not alone. These are some of the foods most affected by import tariffs in 2025:

• Avocados & Bananas – Primarily imported from Mexico and Central America, these tropical staples are becoming luxury-priced items on many shelves.

• Coffee & Chocolate – Even artisan products rely on beans and cacao sourced from Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Rising freight costs and tariffs have made your morning cup or favorite dessert more expensive.

• Packaged Goods & Canned Produce – Pantry staples sourced from Canada and Europe are now coming with a higher price tag due to increased import duties.

• Imported Cheeses & Specialty Meats – Beloved gourmet items like Italian prosciutto and French brie are quickly moving out of reach for many households.

Consumers may not realize just how much of their diet depends on a globally interconnected food chain—until the price tags start climbing.

Seasonal Eating: A Smart (and Delicious) Strategy

One hidden consequence of import tariffs is the increased cost of off-season produce. That tomato in January? Probably from Mexico. The melon in March? Likely imported as well. The farther food travels, the more susceptible it is to global policy shifts.

As tariffs drive up the cost of out-of-season fruits and vegetables, seasonal eating becomes not just a smart choice—but a necessity.

At Fresh Harvest, we’ve always embraced the natural rhythm of Georgia’s growing seasons. Our produce changes with the calendar, not with cargo shipments. Choosing to eat seasonally isn’t just a delicious experience—it’s increasingly cost-effective, environmentally responsible, and better for your health. It also means your dollars support a food system rooted in soil just miles from your doorstep.

How Fresh Harvest Shields You from Rising Prices

Because our food comes directly from Georgia farms, we’re less vulnerable to global supply chain issues and shifting trade policies. While we do carry some specialty items like coffee and chocolate from local producers that source internationally, the core of what we offer—fresh produce, local meat and dairy, artisan breads and prepared meals—is largely unaffected by tariffs.

With Fresh Harvest, you get:

• Consistent Pricing: No unexpected jumps due to international disputes or political shifts.

• Freshness: Food that doesn’t need a passport to get to your plate.

• Sustainability: Fewer food miles, minimal packaging, and regenerative farming practices.

• Community Impact: The Fresh Harvest community injected over $4 million into Georgia’s local food system in 2024 alone.

Big Results from Local Choices

Since our beginnings, Fresh Harvest customers have collectively invested over $25 million into the local food economy—and we’re just getting started. Our goal? Hit $100 million by 2032, funding a thriving network of small farms, food artisans, and sustainability initiatives across Georgia.

That’s more than just grocery spending—it’s a movement. While big-box grocers juggle international shipping crises and pricing wars, our partner farms are poised to thrive, our customers eat well, and our community grows stronger.

The Bottom Line: You Have a Choice

While grocery giants brace for tariff-induced turmoil, Fresh Harvest customers continue to enjoy local, ethical, and delicious food with confidence. By supporting seasonal eating and small-scale farms, you’re not just making a smart financial choice—you’re building a better food future for Georgia, and securing a stable supply for yourself and your family.

Ready to break free from tariff-driven grocery costs?
Explore our customizable produce boxes and see why Fresh Harvest is Metro Atlanta’s leading choice for organic produce and local groceries.