Families across North Carolina–South Carolina may want to take a closer look at their grocery lists.
On Tuesday morning, the United States announced it is suspending imports from Spain due to the country’s role in the escalating Iran conflict. While it may seem like distant international news, the impact could show up quickly in kitchens from Charlotte and Raleigh to Charleston and Myrtle Beach.
Spain supplies a wide range of food products to the U.S. When imports are suspended, supply becomes tighter. And when supply tightens, prices often rise.
The biggest product to watch in your home is olive oil.
Spain is the largest olive oil producer in the world. Many brands sold in North Carolina and South Carolina rely on Spanish supply, even if the label lists multiple countries. If shipments slow or stop, grocery stores and warehouse clubs could adjust pricing fast.
Several other pantry staples could also be affected. Spanish olives used in salads and pasta dishes, anchovies for dressings and seafood recipes, smoked paprika for seasoning, and manchego cheese for gatherings are commonly imported. If you cook at home often — especially seafood, grilled dishes, or Mediterranean-style meals — you could notice price increases within weeks.
Restaurants along the Carolina coast may also feel the impact. Seafood restaurants, Italian eateries, and tapas-style spots use large amounts of olive oil and imported ingredients. Higher costs may lead to menu price adjustments.
This is not a shortage situation. Stores will continue to have options. But when imports are cut off, prices typically rise before new supply sources are secured.
Households in North Carolina–South Carolina that rely on these products may want to check pantry supplies before costs move higher.
Full List: Grocery Items That Could Increase in Price
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Bulk olive oil (warehouse club sizes)
- Spanish olives
- Anchovies
- Sardines packed in olive oil
- Manchego cheese
- Serrano ham
- Spanish chorizo
- Smoked paprika
- Saffron
- Paella rice
- Sherry vinegar
- Rioja wine
- Cava
North Carolina–South Carolina families who regularly use these items may feel the impact first in their home kitchens.
