Families across Utah–Colorado may want to take a closer look at their next grocery bill.
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 that may seem like distant political news, it could quickly affect what you pay at stores in Denver, Colorado Springs, Salt Lake City, Provo, and communities across the Rockies.
Spain exports a wide range of food products to the United States. When imports are suspended, supply tightens. When supply tightens, prices often rise — especially on imported cooking staples.
The biggest item to watch in your home is olive oil.
Spain is the world’s largest olive oil producer. Many olive oil brands sold in Utah and Colorado rely partly or fully on Spanish supply — even some bottles labeled as blended from multiple countries. If shipments slow or stop, grocery chains and warehouse stores may raise prices quickly as wholesale costs climb.
Other common pantry staples could also be affected. Spanish olives used in salads and pasta dishes, anchovies for dressings and sauces, smoked paprika for seasoning meats, and manchego cheese for gatherings are commonly imported. If you cook often — especially Mediterranean-style meals — you could see price changes in the coming weeks.
Restaurants across Utah–Colorado may also feel the impact. Italian restaurants, seafood spots, and tapas-style eateries rely heavily on olive oil and imported ingredients. Higher costs may lead to higher menu prices.
This is not a food shortage situation. Grocery shelves will remain stocked with alternatives. But when imports are cut off, prices often increase before new suppliers are secured.
Households in Utah–Colorado that regularly use these products may want to review pantry staples before costs rise further.
Full List: Grocery Items That Could Increase in Price
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Bulk olive oil (Costco, Sam’s Club, warehouse 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
