Americans still crave protein despite record beef prices as expert reveals the 'healthiest burger'

Many Americans stocking up for summer cookouts are navigating three competing trends: a heightened demand for protein, an increased emphasis on health and historically high beef prices.

Seventy percent of Americans report protein as the nutrient they most want to consume, a 2025 International Food Information Council survey found. That helps explain why burgers remain a summer staple despite rising beef prices and certain health concerns.

Ground beef prices are up 14% from a year ago, according to NielsenIQ retail data.