With tariffs on the rise, grocery bills could soon feel the pinch—especially for everyday items we usually take for granted. Tariffs can impact the cost of imported ingredients, packaging materials, and even transportation, making food prices jump before we even see it coming. It’s not just specialty items either—basic groceries like rice, pasta, and cooking oil could also take a hit. And once prices go up, they rarely come back down quickly.
If you like to meal prep, cook from scratch, or simply avoid sticker shock at the checkout lane, this is the time to get ahead. Stocking up now on pantry essentials can help you sidestep future price spikes and make your dollar stretch further. These items are all long-lasting, versatile, and easy to store—so you won’t waste anything by buying in bulk. Whether you’re feeding a big family or just like to plan ahead, these 12 must-have foods are worth grabbing while they’re still affordable.
Here are the first five to watch—and why they matter.
1. Coffee
If your day doesn’t officially start until your first cup of coffee, listen up—tariffs could make your morning brew a luxury. Most of the world’s coffee is imported, and new tariffs could drive up costs fast. That means everything from grocery store grounds to specialty roasts could soon carry a higher price tag. Stocking up on whole beans or ground coffee now can save you money later, especially if you store it properly in a cool, dark place.
You can even freeze extra bags to maintain their freshness for months. With global demand staying high and import costs rising, it’s unlikely prices will drop anytime soon. Buying a few extra bags now means you can still enjoy your morning ritual without watching the price climb week after week.
2. Rice
Rice is a pantry staple in many homes, but it’s also vulnerable to global supply chain issues and—you guessed it—tariffs. While the U.S. does produce some rice domestically, a large portion of it still comes from overseas, especially when it comes to popular varieties like jasmine, basmati, or arborio. Tariffs on imported grains can push up prices quickly, even if the change is subtle at first.
Since rice has an incredibly long shelf life when stored in airtight containers, it’s a smart item to buy in bulk now. It’s one of the most cost-effective, filling, and easy-to-use foods in your pantry. You can also portion it into meal-sized servings for easier cooking down the line. Whether you’re making stir-fry, rice bowls, or soups, this is one item worth having on hand.
3. Olive Oil
Tariffs can heavily influence how much you’ll pay for olive oil, which retailers mostly import. With the majority coming from Mediterranean countries, even a modest increase in tariffs could cause price hikes at your local grocery store. Quality olive oil is already on the pricier side, so it makes sense to stock up now before prices climb even higher.
Stored properly in a cool, dark cabinet, unopened bottles can last for many months without going bad. Not only is olive oil essential for cooking, but it’s also perfect for salad dressings, marinades, or drizzling over roasted vegetables. If you use it regularly, investing in a couple of extra bottles now could save you a lot in the long run. Plus, it’s a heart-healthy fat that adds depth to nearly any dish.
4. Canned Tuna
Canned tuna is a go-to protein source that’s easy to store, quick to prepare, and super affordable—for now. Because companies import much of it and use metal for packaging, tariffs on both the fish and the canning materials hit it especially hard. The combination of higher production and import costs could make this cheap protein source less budget-friendly in the near future.
If you’ve got some space in your pantry, now’s a great time to stock up on a few extra cans. Tuna lasts for years and can be used in everything from sandwiches to pasta salads and casseroles. It’s one of the most versatile and convenient proteins around. Just be sure to rotate your stash so nothing goes past its best-by date.
5. Pasta
Rising tariffs could soon hit pasta, especially varieties that importers bring in from Italy and other European countries. Even though it’s inexpensive now, just a small tariff increase can cause a noticeable bump in price when you’re buying several boxes. Stocking up now is a smart move—especially since dry pasta can be stored for a long time in a pantry.
Dry pasta is incredibly shelf-stable and can be used in a huge variety of meals, from classic spaghetti to hearty casseroles. Combine it with frozen or canned veggies, sauces, or proteins for endless easy dinner ideas. It’s a comfort food that’s also cheap, filling, and family-friendly—making it one of the best staples to buy before prices go up.
6. Sugar
Sugar might not be the first thing you think of when preparing for rising tariffs, but it’s one of the most affected. The U.S. imports a significant amount of its sugar supply, and tariffs can easily drive up production costs for both raw and refined varieties. This doesn’t just impact your baking—it also affects the cost of sweets, cereals, sauces, and snacks that use sugar as a key ingredient.
Buying a few extra bags now ensures you’ll have it on hand for baking, preserving, or sweetening beverages. Stored in a cool, dry place, sugar lasts indefinitely and doesn’t spoil. Even if you only use it occasionally, it’s better to buy it now while prices are stable. Consider picking up some brown sugar or powdered sugar, too—they can be just as useful and equally long-lasting.
Read More: 19 Fruits and Vegetables That Don’t Mix Well in Storage
7. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a popular staple for good reason: it’s affordable, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. But it’s also affected by tariffs, especially when it comes to the peanuts themselves, packaging materials, and manufacturing costs. While it may seem like a domestic product, the supply chain for peanut butter often includes imported ingredients and equipment.
Buying a few jars now could save you money later, especially since unopened peanut butter lasts for over a year. You can use it for sandwiches, smoothies, sauces, or straight from the spoon as a protein-packed snack. It’s an ideal item for emergency food storage and kid-friendly meals. Opt for natural or no-stir varieties depending on your preference—both store well and are easy to incorporate into your diet.
8. Frozen Vegetables
Frozen vegetables are a lifesaver on busy nights, and they’re often just as nutritious as fresh produce. But tariffs on imported produce, packaging, or even freezer transport can push prices up quickly. Many frozen veggies—especially blends and organic varieties—are sourced internationally or packed with imported materials, making them susceptible to cost increases.
Stocking your freezer with a few extra bags now can save you from sticker shock later. They’re great for stir-fries, soups, casseroles, or quick side dishes, and they last for months. You can mix and match different blends to add variety to your meals without much prep. Plus, having frozen vegetables on hand makes it easier to cook healthy meals even when fresh produce is out of season or more expensive.
9. Spices
Spices might seem like small-ticket items, but their prices can swing dramatically with tariffs—especially since most are imported from overseas. Common spices like cinnamon, pepper, cumin, and turmeric often travel thousands of miles to reach your kitchen. A slight increase in import costs can lead to noticeable price jumps at the shelf.
Building your spice cabinet now can help you avoid paying more for the same tiny jars later. Properly stored in airtight containers, most ground spices and whole seeds can last one to three years without losing their flavor. Having a solid spice collection also makes it easier to cook delicious meals at home, even on a budget. Don’t forget to check expiration dates and buy in small batches if you don’t use them often.
10. Flour
Flour is the base for so many foods—bread, pancakes, cookies, and even sauces. And while some types are grown domestically, others—especially specialty flours like almond, coconut, or chickpea—are often imported. Tariffs can affect the prices of both the grains themselves and the milling equipment used in processing, so price hikes may be on the horizon.
It’s smart to stock up now, especially if you enjoy baking or are following a specific diet. Flour can last for months when stored in airtight containers in a cool pantry, and even longer in the freezer. Consider picking up different types depending on your needs—regular all-purpose flour for everyday cooking and a specialty flour or two for more unique recipes. That way, you’re covered no matter what the store shelves look like later.
11. Fresh Imported Fruit
Fresh fruit is a grocery staple for many households, but imported varieties are especially vulnerable to rising tariffs. Many popular fruits—like bananas, avocados, mangoes, kiwis, and even some apples—are grown overseas and brought into the U.S. through complex trade routes. When tariffs go up, the cost of importing these fruits rises too, which shows up almost immediately at the grocery store.
While local or seasonal fruit may stay affordable, those juicy out-of-season blueberries or year-round bananas could soon cost a lot more. Buying imported fruits in-season and freezing extras is one way to save. You might also want to get familiar with local alternatives that are less affected by global trade policies. Keeping an eye on where your fruit comes from can make a real difference to your budget.
12. Cheese (Hard and Shelf-Stable Varieties)
Cheese might not be the first thing you think of when preparing for tariff-related price hikes, but it’s one of the most tariff-sensitive items on the market. Imported cheeses like parmesan, gouda, and manchego often face high tariffs, which can drive prices up significantly. Even some domestic cheeses are affected if they rely on imported cultures or equipment.
Hard cheeses, wax-wrapped blocks, and shelf-stable cheese products (like processed cheese in jars or boxes) can last for months or longer without refrigeration. Stocking up now ensures you’ll still have flavorful options for cooking and snacking down the road. Bonus: cheese is rich, satisfying, and can elevate even the simplest meals. Just check expiration dates and store them properly for best results.
Conclusion: Plan Ahead to Beat Price Hikes
Tariffs may seem like something only businesses worry about, but they impact everyday shoppers more than most people realize. From pantry staples to cooking oils and spices, tariff-related price jumps can sneak up quickly. But with a little foresight, you can avoid paying more for the same groceries just a few months down the line.
Stocking up on these must-have foods now doesn’t mean panic-buying—it just means shopping smart while prices are still reasonable. Focus on non-perishable, long-lasting items that you know you’ll use over time. With a well-stocked pantry, you’ll be ready for anything—whether it’s rising prices, unexpected shortages, or just busy weeknights when you need to cook fast.
Take this moment to prepare, save money, and gain a little peace of mind knowing your kitchen is ready for what’s ahead.
Read More: Foods and Beverages With Strict Restrictions or Bans in the U.S.
