Seattle, Washington – Banana shortages are being reported across parts of the Pacific Northwest this February, with shoppers noticing higher prices and reduced availability at some grocery stores.
According to regional produce distributors, banana shipments into Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and western Montana have become less consistent since late January. Retailers near major transportation and retail corridors, including Interstates 5, 84, and 90, report faster sellouts, particularly at high-volume stores serving urban centers and suburban communities.
Industry officials say the tightening supply is tied to global production losses and lingering transportation delays. Tropical Race 4, a fungal disease affecting Cavendish bananas, continues to reduce yields in major exporting countries across Central and South America. The disease has forced some growers to scale back output or abandon infected plantations. In addition, shipping delays linked to labor disputes and port congestion in late 2024 continue to affect delivery schedules to West Coast ports and inland distribution centers.
Retail pricing data shows bananas across the Pacific Northwest now averaging between 69 and 82 cents per pound, reflecting an increase of roughly 12 to 22 percent compared with February last year. Some grocery chains have reduced bulk promotions or substituted alternative fruits in weekly advertisements as supply remains uneven.
Consumers say the impact is becoming more noticeable during routine shopping trips. Shoppers near interstate exits and high-traffic retail hubs report thinning produce displays later in the day, especially ahead of weekends. Stores in more rural and coastal communities report additional challenges tied to longer delivery routes.
Food service operators, including school cafeterias, hospital kitchens, and smoothie shops near college campuses and office districts, say they are adjusting menus or sourcing strategies to manage rising costs.
Agricultural experts say longer-term solutions, including disease-resistant banana varieties and diversified sourcing regions, are underway but unlikely to ease shortages immediately. Distributors expect uneven availability to continue through late winter.
The situation is especially relevant for commuters, students, and young workers across the Pacific Northwest who rely on bananas as a low-cost, widely used staple.
