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Tomatoes Become Latest Symbol of America’s Affordability Squeeze
Tomato prices have jumped about 40% over the past year, according to the Consumer Price Index, outpacing coffee and beef increases and becoming a symbol of America's affordability squeeze.
The U.S. withdrawal from a duty-free Mexico tomato deal triggered a 17% tariff on imports, while the Iran war spiked gas prices and increased shipping costs, compounding inflation pressures.
Snarf reported tomatoes now cost the company more than $1.7 million in additional annual spending. Chief operating officer Wayne Humphrey noted the price surge compounds rising labor and ingredient costs.
Shoppers face prices of up to $8 a pound, prompting some to plan home gardens. New York City chef Isaac Bernal Carbajo said buying fresh vegetables is "starting to become a serious financial decision for many families."
Phillip Coles, a professor of supply chain management at Lehigh University, expects tomato prices to drop later this year as domestic harvests increase. Higher prices will "induce farmers to increase planting to meet the demand," he said.