Federal dietary guidance released in January urges Americans to eat protein at every meal and vegetables throughout the day, with fewer refined carbohydrates. Yet two foods that fit that advice, ground beef and strawberries, cost substantially more than they did a year earlier, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics average price data.

What the price data shows

Ground beef averaged about $6.79 a pound in September, compared with roughly $6.32 a year before, a rise of 7.4%. Strawberries climbed 10.4% over the same period. The broader grocery basket moved far less: food-at-home prices were up 1.8% over 12 months in the September Consumer Price Index.

Beef stands out in federal forecasts. The USDA expects retail beef and veal prices to average well above last year's level across 2026, citing lower federally inspected production that is projected to stay below year-earlier levels through year-end. Fresh vegetables are also forecast higher.

How much protein do people actually eat?

CDC estimates put protein at about 15.5% of daily calories for adults 20 and older, based on data from August 2021 to August 2023. Federal guidance sets an acceptable range of 10% to 35%, so most adults fall inside it, though the share has slipped from 16.1% in 2013-2014. Men took in slightly more protein calories than women.

The most common protein sources were sandwiches, poultry, mixed meat dishes, meat and mixed grain dishes. Nutrition groups such as the American Heart Association stress high-quality protein, including eggs, poultry, seafood and meat.

Can cheaper foods close the gap?

Some of the least expensive options still fit the advice. Dried beans rose just 2.5% in average price, and egg prices are forecast to fall sharply in 2026 as production recovers from the avian influenza outbreak that began in 2022. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has argued that home cooking can undercut fast food, saying a good meal can be made "again and again for $2 or $3."

What is being done about beef prices?

In August, President Donald Trump authorized a 90-day waiver allowing up to 300,000 metric tons of lean beef trimmings into the country at reduced tariff rates. Customs data show only 37,486 metric tons arrived in September, and about 21,937 metric tons through Oct. 19, according to the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Rancher groups opposed the move, warning it could discourage herd rebuilding.

FAQ

Why is ground beef so expensive?

The USDA links higher beef prices to reduced federally inspected production, which it expects to remain below year-ago levels through the end of 2026.

Are there cheaper protein sources?

Yes. Eggs and dried beans have risen far less than beef, and egg prices are forecast to drop in 2026.