So, here we are again trying to figure out the cost of produce and, in particular, tropical fruits. The other day, I picked up these Guava tarts on sale. They were priced about $5 for the package of four which I thought is a pretty good deal around here.
The flavor of guava is sweet and tasty. Really, I enjoyed these sugar sprinkled tarts.
Tropical Fruits – Pineapple
However, on a recent phone in/home delivery order, I noticed the high price of fresh pineapples. This particular store was selling the pineapples for $7.54 each. Also, the papayas are steeply priced at $5.88 each.
In checking some things out, some food items are going to be affected by the new trade tariffs. Let’s see, avocados, tomatoes, bell peppers, raspberries, strawberries, squash, and pineapples are all included.
I always thought the bulk of US pineapples came from Hawaii, but that’s not the case. According to the Produce Blue Book, the majority of fresh pineapples in the US are imported from Costa Rica, Honduras and Mexico.
Maui Gold – Tropical Fruits
Online I noted one gourmet type of pineapple from Hawaii is called Maui Gold. Apparently, they are popular with tourists who bring them home. They are sold in gift sets and are said to be super sweet. The price is approximately $50 for one pineapple.
Maui Gold Pineapples are grown at Hali’imaile, Maui, Hawaii. Wow, it looks like you can also take a tour of the pineapple plantation or dine there. Sounds like fun.
Ending Notes
In conclusion, I was a little surprised at the price of the fresh pineapples. Personally, I think a pineapple over the price of $7 is expensive.
All in all, there are a variety of reasons for prices increases not only due to the new trade tariffs. There are noted climate changes, increased production costs, and a growing demand for those wonderful tropical fruits.
Anyway, I’m going to hold off buying a pineapple over the price of $7 for a while. Because what goes up in price, eventually comes down when the market becomes saturated with pineapples.
Resource Sites: Maui Pineapple Farm Tour and Produce Blue Book.