Worried about grocery hikes? These Walmart pantry picks could save you

Grocery prices don’t wait for permission to rise—and with tariffs back in the headlines, everyday essentials could soon get more expensive.

But there’s one thing smart shoppers know: not all price hikes hit at once. In fact, some staples are made right here in the US, which makes them more resistant to trade-driven inflation.

Each of these finds is not only affordable, but also shelf-stable, versatile, and sourced from US producers. That means you can stock up with confidence—no surprise costs, no tricky import delays.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these essentials are worth grabbing now while the price is still right. Let’s get into what to toss in your cart this week.



1. Great value golden sweet whole kernel corn – $0.58
This all-American staple belongs in every pantry. Canned corn adds quick nutrition to soups, casseroles, and salads, and it stores well for months.

It’s grown and packed in the US, so you’re avoiding the tariff markup entirely. At just 58 cents a can, it’s a no-brainer to grab a few extra.


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Not all price hikes hit at once. Image source: David Montero / Unsplash


2. Great value brown gravy mix – $0.40
Few things stretch a meal like a packet of gravy. This one’s made domestically and adds rich flavor to meats, mashed potatoes, or open-faced sandwiches.

It’s ready in minutes and costs less than half a dollar. Keep several on hand for easy comfort food any night of the week.



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

3. Great value penne pasta – $0.92
Imported pasta can be hit hard by tariffs, but this Great Value option is made in the US. It cooks in under 10 minutes and works for baked dishes, pasta salads, or weeknight dinners.

At under a dollar, it’s a reliable, filling meal base you can always count on. Pasta lasts in the pantry, so it’s smart to buy in bulk when prices are low.

4. Great value sliced peaches in light syrup – $1.28
This one slightly breaks the $1 line, but it’s still a sweet deal. Canned peaches are a great way to keep fruit in your diet without worrying about seasonality or spoilage.

Grown and packed in the US, they’re perfect for cobblers, snacks, or a quick dessert. A couple cans in your cupboard can go a long way.



5. Great value vegetable oil (48 fl oz) – $3.44
Yes, this one’s over a dollar too—but it’s worth flagging because of how dramatically imported oils can spike during trade disruptions. This versatile oil is made domestically and can be used for frying, baking, or sautéing.

One bottle can last weeks, if not longer.

Opting for domestically made items helps you steer clear of tariff-related markups and manage your food expenses more effectively.

Read next: Act fast: How tariff changes could affect your online shopping and the loophole to save money!
Key Takeaways

  • As tariff concerns grow, US-made grocery staples are becoming a go-to choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
  • Items like canned corn, pasta, vegetable oil, gravy mix, and sliced peaches are all domestically sourced, shelf-stable, and priced under $1.50.
  • These products are more insulated from trade-driven price hikes and are ideal for bulk buying without the risk of sudden cost increases.
  • Opting for domestically made items helps you steer clear of tariff-related markups and manage your food expenses more effectively.
Have a favorite under-$1 pantry find? Or a recipe that turns basic ingredients into something amazing? We’d love to hear it—drop your tips in the comments below. Together, we can shop smarter, cook better, and keep the kitchen running smoothly, no matter what happens on the world stage.
 

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News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

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