5 Most Consumed Vegetables in the US

In this piece, we will take a look at the 5 most consumed vegetables in the U.S. For more vegetables, head on over to the 15 most consumed vegetables in the U.S.

5. Onions

Total availability (pounds per capita): 10.8

Around 7 billion pounds of onions are produced each year, and onions are grown in many of the same regions as potatoes. In terms of value as well as consumption, onions rank 5th in vegetables production in the U.S.

4. Bell Peppers

Total availability (pounds per capita): 11.1

The versatility of bell peppers contributes to it being among the most consumed vegetables in the U.S. In 2023, the global market for bell peppers has seen lower production and increased prices due to adverse weather, and are especially popular among those taking part in Keto diets.

3. Lettuce, leaf and romaine

Total availability (pounds per capita): 12.6

The most widely consumed leafy green in the U.S., lettuce is popular in various cuisines including in salads and even in fast food. Lettuce alone is said to account for around 20% of the $21.8 billion that U.S. farmers earn from selling vegetables and melons. The vast majority, around 85%, of lettuce consumed in the U.S. is produced domestically as well, and the leading regions producing lettuce can vary depending on the time of the year, with Southern California dominating from mid-November through early April, and Central California taking the crown from April through mid-November.

2. Potatoes

Total availability (pounds per capita): 22.4

The versatility of potatoes allow them to be consumed in a wide variety of ways, explaining their significant popularity. Idaho is the leading potato producer in the U.S., and has been in the number one position for more than 60 years! Currently, a third of all potato production in the U.S. is from Idaho.

1. Tomatoes

Total availability (pounds per capita): 38.5

Easily topping the list of the 15 most consumed vegetables in the U.S. is the tomato, which is also the highest consumed vegetable per capita in the world. This is despite Californian farmers facing increased growing costs as water supply issues persist in the state.

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