A growing number of Americans are stockpiling non-perishable food items and other essentials in preparation for potential tariffs, which could lead to price increases and supply chain disruptions. In response to the Trump administration’s ongoing threat of tariffs, more than 250 readers shared their plans with The New York Times Cooking.
Coffee was the most frequently mentioned item, as it is a staple in many American households. Other popular items include maple syrup from Canada, olive oil, canned and dried beans, avocados, and pantry staples like grains, rice, and peanut butter.
Many readers are taking steps to stockpile these essentials due to concerns about their long-term availability or cost. Some, like Mary Corbett in San Diego, plan to buy coffee by the pound to create a “strategic coffee reserve.” Others, such as Denise Adams in New York, have started buying olive oil in smaller bottles to ensure it doesn’t expire.
The uncertainty surrounding tariffs has led some readers to focus on stocking up on non-perishable items. “Beans, beans, beans — including dried beans,” said Kathy Rohlman of Muskegon, Mich., who plans to stock canned goods and beans every week.
As the threat of 25 percent tariffs on Mexican products remains in place, avocados have become a popular item among readers. Many are concerned about the impact of tariffs on Mexican agricultural exports, which account for nearly 92% of US imports.
To prepare for potential price increases and supply chain disruptions, some readers are opting for pantry staples like oats, quinoa, dried fruits, spices, coffee, and nuts. Others are stockpiling frozen fruit, chicken, and pork.
The uncertainty surrounding tariffs has led to a sense of anxiety among consumers, but many are taking practical steps to prepare by stocking up on essentials.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/19/dining/us-tariffs-stockpiling.html