1. Bananas
Bananas top the list as America’s most popular fruit, favored for their affordability, yearround availability, and convenience. They are a staple in breakfast routines (e.g., sliced on cereal or oatmeal), snacks, and even postworkout recovery. Rich in potassium (supporting heart health and muscle function), vitamin B6 (aiding brain function), and fiber (promoting digestion), bananas are a practical choice for busy lifestyles. Their natural sweetness also makes them a popular base for smoothies, baked goods (like banana bread), and frozen treats.
2. Apples
Apples are a close second, with over 78% of U.S. households purchasing them annually. Known for their crisp texture and sweettart flavor, they are available yearround and come in hundreds of varieties (e.g., Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji). Apples are high in dietary fiber (4.4 grams per medium fruit, supporting gut health and blood sugar regulation) and vitamin C (boosting immunity). They are incredibly versatile—eaten fresh, baked into pies, added to salads, or blended into sauces—and their long shelf life makes them a reliable pantry staple.
3. Grapes
Grapes rank third, with over 74% of households buying them yearly. Available in red, green, and black varieties, they are sweet, hydrating (92% water), and perfect for snacking. Grapes are packed with antioxidants (like resveratrol, which supports heart health), vitamin C (enhancing immune defense), and potassium (regulating blood pressure). Their convenience—no peeling required—makes them a popular choice for kids’ lunches, salads, and even as a frozen treat. Seedless varieties have further boosted their popularity, with sales increasing by 12% in North America in 2024.
4. Strawberries
Strawberries are a favorite among berry lovers, with over 71% of households purchasing them annually. They are at their peak in late spring and early summer, offering a sweet, juicy flavor and vibrant color. Strawberries are high in vitamin C (150% of daily value in eight berries), manganese (supporting metabolism), and fiber (aiding digestion). They are also low in calories (about 50 per cup), making them a popular choice for weight management. Strawberries are versatile—enjoyed fresh, added to yogurt or cereal, blended into smoothies, or used as a topping for desserts.
5. Watermelon
Watermelon is a summer staple, ranking fifth in popularity. It is 92% water, making it incredibly hydrating, and is packed with lycopene (an antioxidant linked to reduced cancer risk and heart health). Watermelon is also a good source of vitamin A (supporting healthy skin and vision) and vitamin C (boosting immunity). It is typically eaten fresh, cubed or sliced, but is also popular as a frozen pop, blended into smoothies, or served with feta cheese and balsamic glaze for a refreshing appetizer.
6. Avocados
Avocados have surged in popularity, with U.S. per capita consumption more than doubling since 2010 (reaching 10.2 pounds per person in 2024). While technically a fruit, they are often treated as a vegetable due to their savory flavor. Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats (helping to lower bad cholesterol), fiber (promoting gut health), and potassium (more than bananas). They are incredibly versatile—used in guacamole, toast, smoothies, salads, and even desserts—and their creamy texture makes them a favorite in plantbased diets.
7. Blueberries
Blueberries are a superfood favorite, with over 53% of households purchasing them annually. Known for their deep blue color, they are packed with antioxidants (anthocyanins, which support brain health and reduce inflammation), vitamin C (boosting immunity), and fiber (aiding digestion). Blueberries are low in calories (80 per cup) and have a long shelf life when refrigerated or frozen, making them a practical choice for yearround consumption. They are often added to smoothies, oatmeal, salads, or eaten fresh as a snack.
8. Oranges
Oranges rank eighth, with over 48% of households buying them yearly. They are synonymous with vitamin C (providing over 90% of daily needs in one medium fruit), which supports immunity and helps the body absorb iron. Oranges are also a good source of folate (important for cell growth) and potassium (regulating blood pressure). While fresh oranges are popular, easypeel mandarins and clementines (a hybrid of oranges and mandarins) have gained traction due to their convenience—perfect for onthego snacking. Oranges are also used in salads, marinades, and juices.
9. Lemons
Lemons are a culinary essential, with U.S. production hitting 1.2 million tons in 2024. They are rich in vitamin C (50 mg per fruit, more than half of daily needs) and are valued for their acidity, which adds brightness to dishes and drinks. Lemons are used in everything from lemon water (aiding digestion and hydration) to salad dressings, marinades, and baked goods. Their zest (grated peel) is also popular for adding flavor to dishes without extra calories. Demand for organic lemons has spiked in recent years, with sales increasing by 14% in 2024.
10. Mangoes
Mangoes are a tropical favorite, with U.S. imports hitting a record high in 2024. They are rich in vitamin A (supporting vision and immune health) and vitamin C (providing over 60 mg per cup, which is more than 60% of daily needs). Mangoes are also high in fiber (aiding digestion) and contain polyphenols (antioxidants that reduce inflammation). They are incredibly versatile—enjoyed fresh, sliced into salsas, blended into smoothies, or added to salads and desserts. Their natural sweetness and tropical flavor have made them a popular choice for those exploring global cuisines.