Article Summary –
Donald Trump’s economic policies, notably increased tariffs and the repercussions of his actions in Iran, have led to a significant rise in school meal costs, with typical lunch staples increasing in price by nearly 11% over the past year. The Groundwork Collaborative attributes these price hikes to Trump’s tariffs on imports and the inflated fuel prices caused by the conflict in Iran, with diesel prices reaching record highs affecting the cost of shipping and food production. Additionally, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act has reduced access to food assistance programs, further burdening families, especially those from low-income backgrounds, with increased difficulty in qualifying for free school meals.
President Donald Trump’s economic policies may be driving up school meal costs, as indicated by a July report from the nonprofit Groundwork Collaborative.
“No corner of the lunch box is insulated from the Trump administration’s economic policies,” states the organization’s research into rising costs for back-to-school families.
The report highlights an 11% rise in the cost of typical lunch staples over the past year.
Groundwork’s study estimates packing school lunches will cost families over $3,800 in the upcoming school year, a $400 increase from 2025.
“Parents face higher prices in every grocery aisle: fresh blueberries are up 47.7% over the year, deli favorites like sliced ham and turkey rose roughly 12%,” the report states. “Staples like sandwich bread increased by 21.8%, apple juice by 20%, and animal crackers by 15.7%.”
Both Trump’s tariffs on imported goods and increased fuel prices, stemming from his war in Iran, are blamed for the price hikes, according to Groundwork.
In July, after prior tariffs were struck down or expired, Trump’s administration announced new tariffs ranging from 10%-12.5% on products from 59 countries and the EU. Twenty-five U.S. states filed a lawsuit in August challenging these tariffs, seeking their cancellation and refund. Per the lawsuit, these tariffs affect over 99% of U.S. imports.
The report highlights that Trump’s war in Iran has caused oil prices to soar, increasing diesel costs and expenses for petroleum-based packaging. CNBC reported on a record diesel price of $5.85 per gallon on Sept. 4, a 60% rise from the previous year.
According to the Engine Technology Forum, approximately 76% of U.S. commercial trucks use diesel, further raising food shipping and consumer prices.
The conflict in Iran is also limiting fertilizer supplies, further escalating food costs as reported by the organization.
Groundwork Collaborative notes that Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed in July 2025 creates additional challenges for feeding children.
“This law complicates food assistance and healthcare benefits through SNAP and Medicaid, reducing children automatically eligible for free meals,” the report says.
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