Over 2,000 attend release of 2026 Consumer X-Ray Findings at MIDA Conference

Food industry executives, retailers and suppliers gathered at the Puerto Rico Convention Center for the opening of the MIDA Conference & Food Show, one of the Caribbean’s largest trade events.

By THE STAR STAFF

More than 2,000 executives and business leaders from Puerto Rico’s food industry gathered Thursday at the Puerto Rico Convention Center for the presentation of Radiografía del Consumidor 2026, the island’s leading annual study of consumer behavior commissioned by the Puerto Rico Marketing, Industry and Food Distribution Chamber (MIDA).

The study was unveiled during the opening of the MIDA Conference & Food Show, which features more than 550 exhibitors from Puerto Rico and abroad.

This year’s findings reveal that inflation and economic uncertainty continue to influence household spending habits. According to Richard Valdés, chair of the Consumer X-Ray Committee, 45% of respondents reported annual incomes below $20,000, while nearly one-quarter earn $10,000 or less. Food spending represents 12.7% of household income in Puerto Rico, compared with 8.1% in the United States.

Despite persistent inflation, average monthly spending on food declined by 5%, or about $19, while spending on household products dropped 14%. MIDA Executive Vice President Manuel Reyes Alfonso attributed the trend to a growing “psychology of uncertainty,” as consumers become more cautious with their spending.

Concerns about potential reductions to the Nutritional Assistance Program (PAN) and Medicare remain widespread. The study found that 43% of respondents receive PAN benefits, which support approximately 1.2 million residents. Older adults expressed the greatest concern, with many indicating they would need to reduce food purchases if benefits were cut.

Consumers are also planning their purchases more carefully. Ninety-two percent said they check what they already have at home before shopping, while 73% use written shopping lists. Half compare prices among supermarkets, and 43% review store websites before making purchases.

Shopping frequency has declined as well. Large monthly grocery trips fell by 11%, while smaller refill trips decreased from three to two per month. Price remains the primary factor in selecting a supermarket, although product variety and fresh produce quality have become increasingly important.

Health and wellness continue to shape purchasing decisions. Consumers spend an average of $95 per month on wellness-related products and services, including gym memberships and supplements. The report also found increased consumption of protein-rich foods, with protein yogurts and shakes experiencing significant sales growth.

Support for locally produced goods remains strong. Ninety-seven percent of respondents said they purchase products made in Puerto Rico, and 77% identify them through the “Hecho en Puerto Rico” seal.

The study also found growth in online grocery shopping, which increased from 16% to 19% of consumers. Food products are among the most common purchases influenced by social media platforms such as TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

The MIDA Conference & Food Show continues through June 27 with educational sessions, networking events and presentations from industry experts.