As tariff policies shift and economic uncertainty ripples through household budgets, one thing is clear: grocery prices are on many minds.

With former President Donald Trump's new round of tariffs—including a sweeping 10% global rate and select items hit with increases as high as 54%—many everyday essentials are expected to become more expensive.

But not everything in your cart is subject to the same fate. In fact, there are some pantry and fridge staples that are likely to remain untouched by the changes.

At The GrayVine, we're always looking out for ways our readers can stretch their budgets without compromising on quality.

We've identified seven key grocery items that appear to be safe from the latest round of tariffs—helping you shop smarter even as prices shift.

There are seven key grocery items that appear to be safe from the latest round of tariff. Image source: Fikri Rasyid / Unsplash

1. US-Grown Produce: Homegrown & Tariff-Free​

Not all fruits and vegetables are on the chopping block. Produce grown right here in the United States—think Washington apples, California avocados, and Florida citrus—won't be impacted by the new tariffs. While seasonal changes and transportation costs can still affect pricing, your favorite homegrown fruits and veggies should remain relatively stable.

2. Store-Brand American Milk: A Reliable Staple​

The US dairy industry remains strong, with 17 billion pounds of milk produced just in February 2025. Most store-brand milk, like Kirkland (Costco) or Great Value (Walmart), is domestically sourced and processed, meaning it won’t be affected by rising international trade costs. Your cereal companion is safe—for now.

Also read: Trade tensions rise between US and Canada—tariff decisions pending

3. Chicken and Eggs: All-American Protein​

The poultry and egg sections at most grocery stores are largely filled with products from US farms. Since these items are rarely imported, their prices are expected to stay grounded. Though feed and fuel prices may still play a role in fluctuations, tariffs won’t be a contributing factor.

4. Domestically Milled Flour & Bread: Still the Staff of Life​

America’s wheat belt supplies the bulk of flour used in grocery-store baked goods. Products from store bakeries or store-brand loaves typically rely on domestic grain and milling. So whether you're baking at home or buying sliced bread, expect consistent pricing despite tariff talk.

Also read: Slash your grocery bill now: 5 smart swaps to outsmart rising tariff costs!

5. Bottled Water & Soda: Domestic Drinks Stay Cool​

Imported bottled beverages might see an uptick in cost, but those bottled within the US likely won’t. That means your go-to sparkling water or soda—provided it’s from a domestic brand—shouldn’t fizzle out your budget.

6. American Peanut Butter: Spread Without the Squeeze​

Peanuts thrive in the Southern US, and major peanut butter brands rely almost entirely on domestic crops. Whether you’re a Jif fan or love a spoonful of Skippy, this snack-time favorite is expected to stay spreadably affordable.

7. US-Made Canned Goods: Shelf-Stable & Steady​

Canned corn, tomatoes, beans, and soups made by American companies using locally grown ingredients are well-positioned to avoid tariff-induced price hikes. Since much of the steel and aluminum used in packaging is also sourced domestically, this pantry category is doubly protected.

Why It Matters​

Source: KOMO News / YouTube​

Knowing which staples are likely to remain stable in price helps you make smarter choices during your weekly shopping trips.

As trade policies shift and some grocery costs rise, being informed is your first line of defense against surprise price tags.

Read next: One major industry just dodged Trump’s global tariff—Here’s why it matters to you.

Key Takeaways

• President Donald Trump's tariffs may result in higher prices for many items, but certain groceries will remain unaffected.
• US-grown produce, like Washington apples and California avocados, will not be subject to these tariffs and should remain price stable.
• Domestic dairy items like store-brand American milk and locally sourced chicken and eggs are unlikely to increase in price due to the tariffs.
• Products with domestic supply chains, such as American-made peanut butter, domestically milled flour and bread, and US-bottled water and soft drinks, as well as canned goods made in the USA, are expected to remain at their current price points despite the new tariffs.

Have you noticed changes in your grocery bill? Are there items you've started swapping or skipping? Share your smart-shopping strategies in the comments below and help our community stay ahead of the curve.

 

[dlt821]

My grocery list has remained the same for years. I haven't noticed any increases in what I buy. I'm paying today what I usually pay. Not a big egg user, I use frozen and canned vegetables over fresh most of the time, local bread and cereal, milk, and meat. I'll be watching tea prices. It's the only thing I use that might be affected.

 

[Maxineb]

How do you know prices are going to rise? Nobody knows and it couldn’t be worse than almost 40% inflation from the last four years.

 

[dlt821]

How do you know prices are going to rise? Nobody knows and it couldn’t be worse than almost 40% inflation from the last four years.

History shows that foods imported increase in price with tariffs. Tomato products from Mexico increased the last time under Trump. As for inflation, that was world wide, not just in the US. In fact, it was lower in the US than in other countries. You can check the statistics yourself.

 

[Maxineb]

History shows that foods imported increase in price with tariffs. Tomato products from Mexico increased the last time under Trump. As for inflation, that was world wide, not just in the US. In fact, it was lower in the US than in other countries. You can check the statistics yourself.

This is inaccurate …. Depends where you get your statistics from … in a world where anything can be doctored . You make note of one item tomatoes under Trump 5 years ago? What happened under Biden? Anything????