Poultry
Poultry continues to be one of the more favorable protein categories for restaurant operators. Production remains above last year, helping push prices lower across many chicken products and creating opportunities to improve food cost margins.
Outlook: Poultry prices are expected to remain favorable through the summer, making it a cost-effective menu protein.
Beef
Beef remains a higher-cost protein as supplies continue to lag behind last year despite slight production gains. While additional production is expected later this summer, operators should continue monitoring beef costs and menu profitability.
Outlook: Beef prices are likely to remain elevated in the near term, with only modest relief expected if seasonal production increases materialize.
Pork
Strong pork production is helping keep prices relatively stable, with most cuts still priced below last year’s levels despite recent strength in bellies. This continues to provide good value for operators looking to balance protein costs.
Outlook: Expect modest seasonal price increases, but pork should remain one of the more stable protein options this summer.
Produce
Lettuce remains the biggest cost concern in produce, with prices continuing to climb due to limited supplies. Most other produce categories, including tomatoes, are following more typical seasonal pricing patterns.
Outlook: Plan for continued pressure on lettuce costs while expecting more moderate pricing across most other produce items.
Dairy
Dairy markets moved lower again last week, with butter, cheese, and milk powder prices all declining as milk supplies remain strong. Stable dairy pricing can help support food cost management across many menu categories.
Outlook: Dairy costs are expected to remain relatively stable through the summer with only modest seasonal fluctuations.
Grains
Grain markets were mixed, but recent price movement has been relatively moderate following earlier declines. Stable grain costs can help limit pricing pressure on products that rely heavily on wheat, corn, and soybean inputs.
Outlook: Grain markets are expected to remain somewhat volatile, but significant near-term cost increases appear unlikely.
Seafood
Fresh yellowfin tuna prices fell sharply last month after reaching seasonal highs earlier this spring. Lower pricing may create opportunities for operators featuring tuna on seasonal menus.
Outlook: Tuna prices are expected to trend higher later this summer, so operators may benefit from taking advantage of current pricing while it lasts.
