Yikes – have you checked your grocery receipts lately? If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed your weekly food budget stretching thinner and thinner. With upcoming tariffs against Canada and Mexico on the horizon and food prices already up across the board, things are about to get even more expensive. The good news? You can outsmart these price hikes by stocking up on certain frozen foods now. I’ve done the research on what’s going to cost more soon, and I’m sharing my shopping list with you so we can all save some cash before these prices jump even higher.
Meat and seafood prices will jump dramatically
The meat and seafood section is going to see some of the biggest price increases once those new tariffs kick in. Right now is the perfect time to stock up on your favorite cuts of beef, chicken, and fish. Grocery price data shows that meat and poultry prices have already risen over 9% in many cities – way higher than general inflation rates. And with Canada being one of our biggest meat suppliers, those prices are only going to climb higher once tariffs take effect.
When you’re shopping, look for family packs or bulk options that offer better value per pound. Once home, separate the meat into meal-sized portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe, airtight bags and squeeze out all the air to prevent freezer burn. Most raw meats will keep well for 3-6 months, while seafood stays good for about 3 months. Don’t forget to label everything with the date! Frozen processed meats like sausages and hot dogs are also smart buys now, as this category saw nearly 20% growth last year due to price-conscious shoppers.
Frozen fruits and vegetables offer long-term savings
Frozen produce is about to get more expensive too, so fill that freezer while prices are still reasonable. Mexico supplies tons of our fruits and vegetables, and when those tariffs hit, expect prices to climb. The great thing about frozen produce is that it’s picked and frozen at peak ripeness, so you’re not sacrificing quality for convenience. Plus, these items can last 8-12 months in your freezer without losing much nutritional value or taste.
Berries, mangoes, and other fruits that tend to be pricey when fresh are especially good to stock up on now. For vegetables, focus on versatile options like peas, corn, broccoli, and mixed stir-fry blends that can work in multiple recipes. Market data shows that prices per unit for frozen foods have already increased by 13.5% compared to last year and a whopping 29.6% compared to three years ago. This trend isn’t slowing down, so buying now before the next wave of increases means real savings over the next few months.
Ready meals and entrees seeing highest markups
If you rely on frozen dinners and entrees for busy weeknights, you’ll want to load up your cart now. This category has seen some of the steepest price hikes already – up 6% in 2021 alone – and is expected to climb even higher. These convenient meals are particularly vulnerable to price increases because they contain multiple ingredients that are all getting more expensive. When you consider that dinner and entrees make up the largest frozen food category, it’s clear why food companies target them for price increases.
Keep an eye out for sales and stock up on your household favorites. Many frozen meals will stay good for 3-6 months, giving you plenty of time to use them before they lose quality. The dinner and entrees category is expected to see additional price increases as manufacturers continue to face rising costs for ingredients, packaging, and transportation. Having a stash of these meals on hand now can help buffer your budget against the coming price jumps while providing quick dinner solutions on hectic days.
Breakfast items that won’t break the bank
Breakfast foods deserve special attention when it comes to stocking up before price increases. Frozen breakfast items like waffles, breakfast sandwiches, and hash browns are staples for many households and make quick morning meals. With egg prices expected to rise dramatically – forecasts suggest a shocking 57.6% increase in 2025 due to bird flu – anything containing eggs is going to cost more very soon.
Many breakfast items freeze exceptionally well, with shelf lives of 3-6 months. Even items you might not typically think to freeze, like breakfast burritos or sandwiches, can be stocked up on now. The USDA forecasts overall food prices will rise 3.2% in the next three years, but egg-based products will see much steeper increases. For families with children who eat breakfast foods throughout the day (breakfast-for-dinner fans!), these savings can really add up over time. Buy now while prices remain somewhat stable.
Pizza and snacks worth buying in bulk
Frozen pizza and snacks like mozzarella sticks, potato skins, and chicken wings are about to get pricier too. These fun foods rely heavily on dairy, wheat, and meat products – all categories facing price pressure. If your family enjoys pizza night or game-day snacks, now’s the time to stock up. Most frozen pizzas and appetizers will stay good for 3-4 months in your freezer, so you can buy several now and enjoy them into the summer.
Look for multi-packs and family-size options to maximize your savings. Recent pricing data shows that 40% of shoppers now rank price as one of the top three reasons they buy certain frozen foods, according to industry reports. Store brands (private label products) are often a smart way to save even more. These items have seen significant growth as shoppers look for ways to stretch their budgets without giving up favorite treats entirely. The convenience factor of having these items on hand also saves you from expensive takeout when you’re too tired to cook.
Desserts and ice cream might soon cost more
Sweet treats aren’t exempt from the coming price increases. Frozen desserts like ice cream, popsicles, and pies use ingredients that are getting more expensive – dairy, eggs, sugar, and fruits. With sugar prices expected to rise due to tariffs, your favorite frozen desserts will likely cost more very soon. These items might not be essential, but having a few treats in the freezer can help you avoid expensive impulse buys at the ice cream shop or bakery.
Most frozen desserts will keep well for 2-3 months, though ice cream is best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal texture. Watch for sales on premium brands and stock up when prices drop. Many retailers offer significant promotions on frozen desserts, especially as seasons change. While frozen desserts and ice cream make up one of the largest frozen food categories, they’re also one where consumers are most likely to trade down to cheaper options when prices rise. Buying your favorites now at current prices lets you enjoy your preferred brands without the coming sticker shock.
Prepare for price differences by region
Where you live affects how much prices will rise on frozen foods. Cities like Honolulu, Tampa Bay, and the Twin Cities have already seen grocery price increases of over 4%, while some places like Dallas-Fort Worth have actually seen slight decreases. These regional differences mean your local situation might be better or worse than the national average. Geography, transportation costs, and local market competition all play roles in determining how much prices will climb in your area.
If you’re in a high-inflation area like those mentioned, stocking up now becomes even more important. Residents of Honolulu, where grocery prices rose 5.3% overall, will feel the pinch most severely. Northeastern states are also seeing higher prices, particularly for items like fruits. Monitor your local store flyers and apps for the best deals, and consider buying more when you spot a good price. The regional variations in price increases mean some frozen foods might jump more dramatically in your area than in other parts of the country.
Smart storage maximizes your investment
Getting the most value from your frozen food stockpile requires proper storage. First, make sure your freezer stays at 0°F or below to maintain food quality. Organize items so older purchases get used first – a simple “first in, first out” system works well. Use clear storage containers or bags that you can see through, and always label with the contents and date. This prevents the dreaded “mystery package” syndrome where you can’t remember what something is or how long it’s been there.
If you’re buying a lot, consider investing in a vacuum sealer to extend freezer life even further. For those with limited freezer space, focus on high-value items that will see the biggest price increases. According to experts, storing meat and seafood in airtight bags in the freezer provides the best preservation. Remember that freezers work most efficiently when they’re fairly full, as the frozen items help keep the temperature stable. Just don’t pack it so tight that air can’t circulate properly. With good organization, you’ll waste less food and maximize your savings.
With food prices expected to keep climbing through 2025, a well-stocked freezer is like a savings account that protects you from inflation. The upcoming tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico will push prices even higher on everything from meat to frozen berries. By shopping strategically now and properly storing your finds, you’ll save money and stress in the months ahead. Plus, you’ll always have something good on hand for dinner – and that’s priceless when you’re tired and hungry!
