One of the main ingredients in many dishes we eat at home or in restaurants has recently become considerably more expensive. The price of fresh tomatoes has risen markedly, this as a consequence of the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, the increase in energy costs caused by the war in Iran, and the supply disruptions related to weather conditions, according to a CNBC report.
The average retail price of outdoor-grown tomatoes rose to about $2.26 per pound in March, the highest level in more than eight years, according to data compiled by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Just in the month of March consumers saw how the price of fresh tomatoes rose by 15%, even though in February it had increased by 6%.
The monthly inflation rate of tomatoes in March was the highest of any consumer good or service, with the exception of basic energy products such as gasoline and diesel, whose prices have risen sharply due to a disruption in the oil supply linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
If we add up the percentages by which tomatoes have risen, we conclude that in the last year tomatoes have risen by 23%. Prices are not expected to fall for this kitchen staple.
As an additional note, the United States Department of Agriculture states that tomatoes are among the most consumed vegetables by Americans, second only to potatoes.
From a botanical standpoint, tomatoes are fruits; however, in data sources such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), they are classified as vegetables.
Moreover, the tomato consumed in the United States is imported largely from other countries, and with tariffs in place the price cannot be reduced.
Indeed, when analyzing imports of fresh products from other countries, tomatoes tend to occupy first or second place, behind avocados.
To put it in numbers, the country imports 70% of the tomato supply and Mexico becomes the most important supplier with 90% of imported tomatoes coming from abroad. The Trump administration has imposed a 17% tariff since last July.
It is common to hear complaints among consumers about the price of this product and they also claim that there is an increase in canned tomatoes, which makes it harder for them to be able to consume it. Here in the United States, Florida and California produce tomatoes, but it is not enough to meet demand.
