Canned Goods Under Threat: How Trump’s Tariffs Could Impact Affordable Food for Millions
Canned foods are a lifeline for many Americans, particularly for students like Cale Johnson. At just 20 years old, Cale relies heavily on his pantry staples—tuna, corned beef hash, beans, chicken soup, Spam, and fruit—to navigate life as a full-time student juggling two part-time jobs in Omaha, Nebraska. These affordable, long-shelf-life options are vital for those on a budget.
A Rising Concern
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent decision to double tariffs on steel and aluminum, Cale expresses his growing anxiety. "People are stocking up on non-perishable goods before prices go even higher," he says, referencing the mounting panic as food costs loom ever larger amidst current economic pressures.
Grocery Prices on the Rise
One of Trump’s central promises was to reduce grocery costs for families strained under the weight of pandemic-induced supply chain issues, inflation, and rising food prices. However, as of June 4, the new 50% tariff rate could lead to significant price increases in just a matter of months. Forecasts indicate that tariffs on canned foods—many of which are packaged in steel containers—could inflate prices by up to 15%. This creates a “double-whammy” effect for individuals depending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is currently facing its most profound cuts in history.
The SNAP Crisis
With proposed cuts to SNAP risking food access for millions—including 2 million children—many will struggle to put food on the table as staple prices soar. The current average benefit of $6 per day per person is already insufficient. “As grocery prices climb and SNAP benefits dwindle, families will find it increasingly difficult to meet even their basic needs," warns Gina Plata-Nino, Deputy Director at the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC). This situation threatens to exacerbate food insecurity, housing instability, and homelessness as families are forced to make harrowing choices between essentials.
Experts Weigh In
Parke Wilde, a food economist at Tufts University, warns that hunger rates could "worsen substantially" over the next two years due to these policy shifts. “This represents a significant retreat in the hunger safety net,” he asserts. Furthermore, if SNAP cuts become law and metal tariffs remain in place, hunger-relief organizations and food banks will face escalating challenges.
The Impact on Food Banks
“Canned goods are part of our core strategy due to their shelf life and versatility,” states Michelle Orge, Executive Director of Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. “However, rising costs may lead us to procure fewer items, impacting the variety we can offer.” The heightened prices may also curb donations, as individuals might be less inclined to give when costs soar.
Industry Response
The Can Manufacturers Institute, representing a crucial sector of the food supply chain, is vocally opposing the tariffs, emphasizing how they jeopardize the ability to manufacture canned goods domestically and meet the food needs of Americans. “Tariffs are a food security issue,” declares Scott Breen, President of CMI. “We need to manufacture cans filled with US-grown food, not face inflated costs that burden everyone—from manufacturers to consumers.”
A Broader Economic Impact
Currently, American can producers import nearly 80% of tin mill steel used for canned goods, a consequence of production cuts stemming from the 2018 tariffs. This decline has resulted in the closure of several domestic production lines, leaving just three operational. Major food industry companies, including Del Monte, Goya Foods, Bush’s Beans, and Hormel Foods, have urged Trump to exempt tin mill steel and aluminum from tariffs, but clarity on these exemptions remains elusive.
The Aluminum Association, which represents North American aluminum manufacturers, cautions that a 50% tariff threatens the very industry it’s designed to support, leading to higher prices for consumers across the board.
The Bottom Line
While the administration aims to revive US manufacturing, the unintended consequence may be higher grocery prices, effectively passing the burden onto everyday Americans. As Gina Plata-Nino succinctly puts it, “Food insecurity is not going away… and people’s food prices are not going down.” Policymakers in wealthier circles seem to lose sight of the stark realities faced by average Americans, who are directly affected by these decisions.
In these challenging times, it’s essential to stay informed and advocate for policies that promote food security and support for vulnerable populations. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as countless lives depend on access to affordable, nutritious food.
