The potential imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods by the U.S. government could lead to higher costs for a beloved American staple: French fries. While the U.S. produces most of its own potatoes, it relies heavily on imported canola oil from Canada to achieve the perfect fry texture. President Donald Trump’s wide-ranging tariffs, including a 25% levy on certain Canadian goods, threaten this supply chain. Restaurants and consumers may face rising prices as a result. For example, a Kansas-based restaurant spends $32,760 annually on canola oil, and a price hike could significantly impact profit margins. Since 69% of the canola oil used in the U.S. is imported, primarily from Canada, the tariffs could disrupt the industry. The cost of cooking oil has already risen by about 50% since 2020, and further increases could push fries into the luxury category. Some restaurateurs might switch to alternative oils, such as tallow or sugarcane oil, though supply constraints and quality differences pose challenges. The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s trade policies leaves the future of affordable fries in question.
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