March 31, 2026
CBS News recently published an article featuring Jay Zagorsky, Clinical Associate Professor of Markets, Public Policy, and Law, discussing how rising raspberry prices may signal broader grocery inflation as global conflict pushes up oil and transportation costs.
Wholesale raspberry prices in Boston have climbed roughly 40% since January, underscoring how quickly perishable, supply-chain-dependent foods react to external shocks. Because fresh items require constant refrigeration and rapid transport, they are often the first to reflect rising fuel costs.
As Zagorsky explains, “Very perishable items, like the blackberries and blueberries, they’re going to go out much faster than some of the more shelf-stable items like crackers. So what you typically see is you’re going to see the fresh fruits and vegetables where the pain is going to be felt first and then more of the interior of the supermarket you’re going to see the pain less. That doesn’t mean the pain is not coming.”
In most cases, price increases begin in the produce aisle before spreading to more shelf-stable goods. While some grocers are temporarily absorbing higher costs, many say that approach won’t last—especially as consumers begin shifting toward more affordable options.
