Vegetable Prices Climb in 2022, Driven by Weather, Pests

Vegetable prices saw a noticeable increase in 2022, largely due to weather conditions and pest pressure in the most productive vegetable-growing states. California and Florida were subject to extreme drought conditions or damage from Hurricane Ian, shipping pains, diseases and pest concerns throughout the year, leading to a 33% uptick in consumer costs.

The USDA said iceberg lettuce averaged a 150% increase in costs in the latter half of 2022 and a 132% increase from the three-year average. Retail vegetable prices will show a substantial increase in 2022 compared to year-ago levels and higher prices may persist through January of 2023.

Read more on vegetable production ailments and consumer pricing here.