Written by Bernie Carr
As we approach 2024, it’s time to start looking forward to what may be in store for us. Volatile weather, supply chain disruptions, and economic fluctuations continue to impact the cost of essential groceries. In this article, we’ll take a look at 10 specific food items, including corn, tomatoes, and bananas, to explain why they are expected to become scarce and expensive in 2024. Discover why it’s crucial to stock up on these items now to ensure your budget and your pantry are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Corn
Corn is a versatile crop used in various industries, from food production to animal feed. However, changing weather patterns and increased demand for ethanol production are expected to impact corn production negatively in 2024. Stocking up on corn-based products now can help you avoid shortages and steep price increases.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a vital ingredient in many dishes, but they are sensitive to weather-related disruptions in production. The unpredictability of weather is expected to result in fluctuating tomato yields, leading to higher prices. To enjoy tomato-based dishes without straining your budget, it’s a good idea to start stocking up on canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and sauces. Even better, buy your canned tomatoes while they are on sale. Make sure you choose canned food with the longest expiration dates.
Bananas
Bananas, a popular fruit, are not immune to supply chain disruptions and transportation challenges. These disruptions can affect the availability and cost of bananas in 2024. Stocking up on bananas when they’re readily available and freezing ripe ones can ensure you have a consistent supply while avoiding higher prices. I’ll also use my food dehydrator to dehydrate bananas.
Rice
Rice, a staple food for many, has been in short supply for while now, as I have previously covered. It is vulnerable to the impacts of fluctuating climate and disruptions in supply chains. To prepare for potential rice shortages and price hikes, consider purchasing rice in bulk now.
Wheat products
Wheat-based products like bread, pasta, and flour are essential in many diets. However, factors like droughts and fluctuations in wheat production are expected to lead to increased prices. Stock up on dry pasta, flour and other wheat products now. Also consider alternatives to wheat to add to your diet. If you haven’t already, check out how to start your food storage in Mylar bags here and here.
Cooking oil
Cooking oils, particularly those derived from soybeans and palm oil, may face supply shortages and transportation challenges. Buying cooking oil in larger quantities can help you save money as prices rise.
Meat
Meat prices have been volatile in recent years due to disease outbreaks among livestock and rising feed costs. Stocking up on meat in bulk and freezing portions can help you manage your grocery budget as meat prices continue to fluctuate.
Coffee
Coffee production has been affected by weather and supply chain disruptions, impacting coffee bean availability and prices. Stock up on your favorite coffee beans now to enjoy a consistent supply without overpaying. You can brew a great cup of coffee even without electricity.
Peaches
We already saw a scarcity for peaches this year, and it may worsen for this coming year. Unseasonably warm weather has affected the peach crop in Georgia and surrounding areas such as South Carolina. Stores are able to buy peaches from the West Coast, but the scarcity has driven prices up. I have been buying canned peaches this year and will continue for the coming year.
Salmon
The US West Coast has been experiencing a dwindling salmon population. Salmon fishing for most of the West Coast was cancelled this year, and may be cancelled again if the population continues to dwindle.
Conclusion
As we navigate the uncertainties of 2024, it’s essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your budget and your kitchen. Stocking up on specific food items like flour, corn, tomato products and others in advance can help you mitigate the impact of rising prices and ensure you have essential items readily available. Plan your shopping wisely, take advantage of discounts, and make bulk purchases to tackle the challenges of rising food costs in 2024 with confidence.
About the author
Bernie Carr is the founder of Apartment Prepper. She has written several books including the best-selling Prepper’s Pocket Guide, Jake and Miller’s Big Adventure, The Penny-Pinching Prepper and How to Prepare for Most Emergencies on a $50 a Month Budget. Bernie’s latest e-book, FRUGAL DIY has just been released on Amazon. Her work appears in sites such as the Allstate Blog and Clark.com, as well as print magazines such as Backwoods Survival Guide and Prepper Survival Guide. She has been featured in national publications such as Fox Business and Popular Mechanics. Learn more about Bernie here.
FB: https://www.facebook.com/apartmentprepper
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apartmentpreppers/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AptPrepper
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7vOtdbo-wiBeBxD6puCr1Q
Patreon: https://patreon.com/apartmentprepper
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aptprepper/
Today’s societal climate not supportive of prepping. With your help, we can keep bringing you content that is often suppressed. Help keep Apartment Prepper alive.
Join me on Patreon for ad-free content.
Or Help out via Paypal
