When you fire up the grill for a summer BBQ, you’re not just enjoying the fruits of American farms—you’re also celebrating the hard work of the truck drivers who make it all possible. From burgers and hot dogs to fresh fruit and classic side dishes, every delicious item on your picnic table took a ride in a truck to get there. Let’s take a look at what’s on your plate—and where it came from.
Meats: Burgers, Hot Dogs, and Ribs, Oh My!
The star of any BBQ is the meat, and truckers haul millions of pounds of it across the country every year. The top three beef-producing states are Nebraska, Kansas, and Texas, all of which contribute significantly to the ground beef in your burgers. Texas alone produces over 4.5 million head of cattle annually.
As for hot dogs, they’re often made from pork—and Iowa leads the nation in pork production. It’s home to over 23 million pigs, more than seven times the state’s human population! Whether you’re a fan of ribs or brats, it’s likely that your meat made its way to your local grocery store via refrigerated truck.
Side Dishes: Corn, Potatoes, and Coleslaw Staples
No BBQ is complete without some hearty sides. Corn on the cob is a summer staple, and Iowa and Illinois are top corn-producing states. Corn is often harvested and shipped quickly to maintain freshness, meaning truck drivers are racing the clock to get it to your table.
For that creamy potato salad, look to Idaho, Washington, and Wisconsin, the top potato-growing states. Idaho alone grows over 13 billion pounds of potatoes annually. And if you’re serving up coleslaw, you’re enjoying cabbage that likely came from California, New York, or Florida, three of the biggest cabbage producers in the country.
Fresh Fruits: Sweet Treats from the Road
Nothing says summer like a big slice of juicy watermelon. Florida, Texas, Georgia, and California are among the top watermelon-producing states, and these heavy fruits require careful handling and fast transportation to stay ripe and sweet.
If strawberries or blueberries are more your style, thank California—the state grows nearly 90% of the nation’s strawberries and leads in blueberry production, too. These delicate fruits need to be chilled and transported quickly, making refrigerated trucking essential.
Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes
The journey from farm to BBQ isn’t short. Most food items travel over 1,500 miles before reaching your plate. It’s thanks to the dedication of truck drivers, many of whom drive long hours and through difficult conditions, that we’re able to enjoy fresh, delicious food wherever we are.
So, next time you’re enjoying that perfectly grilled burger with a side of coleslaw and fresh berries, take a moment to appreciate not just the farmers but the drivers who delivered summer to your door.