Introduction to the Rising Cost of Protein

The past few months have seen significant price increases in protein-rich foods like eggs and beef. According to the most recent U.S. government data, there was a 53% increase in egg prices over the past year, which is the largest annual jump in two years. Cases of bird flu in recent months have further exacerbated the issue, making eggs completely unavailable at some grocery stores. Three-quarters of Americans are very concerned over the cost of food and consumer goods, according to a Pew Research Center survey.

The Importance of Protein in a Healthy Diet

There’s no question that protein from foods like eggs plays a key role in a healthy diet, particularly when you have a physically active lifestyle or are looking to build muscle. But with grocery prices on the rise, adding protein-rich foods to your shopping cart could add up quickly. High-protein diets have been linked to reduced body weight, fat mass, and belly fat. That’s because protein keeps you fuller for longer and can help reduce cravings. Dietary protein can also increase muscle mass, especially when coupled with resistance training. Protein also plays a role in preserving muscle mass while losing weight, as it helps repair and rebuild muscle fibers, ensuring that the body burns fat rather than muscle for energy.

Recommended Dietary Allowance for Protein

The Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound, though your intake amount might vary depending on whether you’re looking to lose weight, gain muscle, or maintain your existing weight. To determine your personalized daily protein intake, use an online protein calculator. Still, the RDA is the amount of a nutrient you need to meet your basic nutritional requirements, meaning that some individuals may need more or less of that amount depending on their individual needs, conditions, or health goals. Talk to your doctor or dietitian for more specific guidance on your protein needs.

Key Findings on Protein-Rich Foods

Hims calculated the average price of a serving of eight protein-rich foods to determine the most cost-effective way to add more protein to your diet.

• Chicken ranked at the top of the list due to its high protein content per serving and low price per pound.
• Eggs and steak were the most costly items, in part due to large price increases over the past year; eggs rose by 53% while beef rose by 5.5%.
• Beans, while typically considered a cost-effective protein source, ranked toward the middle of the list, also due in part to recent inflation. The price of dried beans is up 5.6% from a year ago.

Ranking of Groceries by Price Per Ounce and Protein Content

The list ranks eight grocery items based on the price of a serving that contains 25 grams of protein, placing foods with the lowest price at the top of the list.

1. Boneless chicken breast ($0.91 for 25g protein)
2. Pork chops ($0.94 for 25g protein)
3. Ham ($0.99 for 25g protein)
4. Cheese ($1.10 for 25g protein)
5. Ground beef ($1.26 for 25g protein)
6. Dried beans ($1.27 for 25g protein)
7. Eggs ($1.54 for 25g protein)
8. Steak ($2.43 for 25g protein)

Methodology

Hims coupled Johns Hopkins data on protein content per ounce of a given food with the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on average retail and food prices per pound to put together our ranking. Data was standardized by determining the number of ounces in a serving that contains 25 grams of protein, the amount in a typical serving of chicken or beef. The result was then multiplied by the price per ounce to calculate the final price per 25 grams of protein.

Tips for Getting Enough Protein on a Budget

A protein-rich diet is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you energized throughout the day. Protein produces enzymes and hormones that regulate metabolism and immune response, and it aids in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

1. Incorporate multiple sources of protein: Inflation data shows that plant-based foods like peanut butter and canned beans have had the most stable prices over the past year. But they’re not just kind to your wallet. Plant-based foods are often lower in calories and fat compared to meat and dairy. Additionally, they provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can aid in weight loss, making them a great addition to your daily protein intake.
2. Be open-minded: If you’re accustomed to having eggs for breakfast, making a change to your routine may seem daunting. But being open-minded to new healthy protein sources can help introduce a range of essential nutrients to your diet and save you money. For example, you might consider choosing chicken over beef because it’s less impacted by inflation and a leaner source of animal protein. Further, options like lentils or nuts can offer unique health benefits while supporting sustainable eating habits. One study showed that swapping chicken or beef for non-meat protein results in lower LDL cholesterol levels.
3. Cook at home: There’s no doubt that grocery prices are on the rise, but the cost of eating out over the past year increased at nearly double the rate of cooking at home, according to BLS data. In addition, it gives you full control over the ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods, ensuring a healthier meal with fewer additives.

Conclusion

Given the rising costs of protein-rich foods, it’s essential to consider alternative sources of protein that are both affordable and nutritious. By being open to various protein sources, cooking at home, and incorporating multiple sources of protein into your diet, you can maintain a healthy and balanced diet without breaking the bank.

FAQs

• Q: What is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein?
  A: The RDA for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound.
• Q: Which protein-rich food is currently the most cost-effective?
  A: According to the rankings, boneless chicken breast is the most cost-effective protein source, with a price of $0.91 for 25g of protein.
• Q: How can I reduce my protein costs?
  A: Consider incorporating plant-based protein sources, being open to new protein sources, and cooking at home to reduce your protein costs.
• Q: Are there health benefits to choosing plant-based protein sources over meat and dairy?
  A: Yes, plant-based foods are often lower in calories and fat and provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can aid in weight loss and provide other health benefits.
• Q: Where can I find more information on protein intake and health?
  A: Consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on protein intake and health.