Poultry
Chicken supply remains elevated, with production up 3.3% year-over-year, keeping pricing relatively stable across most cuts, while wings remain historically low. Egg prices have dropped sharply from $8.50/dozen last year to around $0.50 today, even as production rises.
Outlook: Chicken is a stable category for cost control right now, but wings could move higher. Eggs offer short-term margin relief, but volatility isn’t gone—watch closely if they’re a core ingredient.
Beef
Beef production increased 1% week-over-week, with trim hitting record highs. Meanwhile, premium cuts like ribeyes are down 10.9% year-over-year, signaling a shift in customer purchasing behavior.
Outlook: Expect continued pressure on food costs. This is a moment to evaluate portioning, pricing, and menu mix as guests continue to trade down.
Pork
Pork production dipped slightly, down 0.9% week-over-week, while pricing weakened across most cuts. Pork belly pricing dropped 7% from March to April, easing bacon costs—for now.
Outlook: Don’t get too comfortable. Seasonal demand typically drives pork prices higher into summer, so locking in costs now could protect margins later.
Seafood
Snow crab prices are down more than 15% over the past three months, offering some relief compared to late 2025 pricing levels.
Outlook: Short-term savings opportunities exist, but pricing can shift quickly. Use this window strategically if seafood is a key menu driver.
Produce
Produce costs remain elevated, with roma tomatoes exceeding $40, iceberg lettuce climbing past prior highs, and onion pricing still surging.
Outlook: This is where margins get squeezed fast. Plan for continued pressure in the near term and look for opportunities to adjust menus, portion sizes, or sourcing.
Dairy
Butter prices dipped and are now trading below cheese, a shift not consistently seen since 2021, while overall dairy markets remain steady.
Outlook: Butter may be nearing a floor, but don’t expect major increases. This category should remain relatively predictable compared to others.
Grains
Grain markets saw modest increases, with soybeans ticking up slightly after a period of flat pricing, largely driven by soybean oil strength.
Outlook: Expect some volatility, but no major cost swings without new market drivers. Keep an eye on how this impacts feed and downstream protein costs.
