As beef prices reach record highs, consumers are reconsidering their protein choices. Here’s what you need to know about eggs versus beef.
The Price Reality
Beef Price Surge
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Ground beef prices are up 11.5% compared to 2024, averaging around $6.25 per pound in July 2025
- Steaks rose by more than 12.4% compared to last year(for example, some cuts averaged around ($11.88–$11.49 per pound)
- Overall beef and veal prices increased 11.3% year-over-year
Why is it so expensive?
The U.S. cattle herd has shrunk to about 94.2 million head in July 2025, the smallest since the 1950s, due to drought, rising feed costs, and supply chain disruptions. This reduced supply, coupled with steady consumer demand, is driving record-high beef prices that are expected to persist into 2026.
Cost Per Protein Gram Comparison
- Two large eggs: ~12 g protein for $0.63 (based on $3.78/dozen average price in July 2025)
- 4 oz ground beef: ~13.7 g protein for $2.01 (based on $8.04/lb)
Eggs cost about one-third per gram of protein compared to beef. For a family of four, swapping beef for eggs in one meal saves around $4–$5.
Eggs: The Protein Advantage
Complete Amino Acid Profile
Eggs are considered a “complete protein”, providing all nine essential amino acids in optimal ratios. Each large egg contains 6–7 g of high-quality protein, including leucine, which is critical for muscle repair, along with isoleucine and valine, which are important for energy and recovery.
Bioavailability and Absorption
Egg protein has one of the highest Protein Digestibility-Corrected Amino Acid Scores (PDCAAS), meaning your body can use it very efficiently. Cooked whole egg protein digestibility reaches approximately 90.9% in humans, making it exceptionally well-absorbed. Beef protein is also highly digestible, but slightly lower due to fat content and connective tissue.
Nutritional Powerhouse
66 kcal – A nutrient-dense food that delivers high quality protein and essential vitamins in a compact, low-calorie package.
6.4 g protein – Builds and repairs muscle tissue, supports satiety, and helps maintain a healthy metabolism.
1.6 µg vitamin D (32% DV) – Supports bone strength, calcium absorption, and immune system regulation.
1.4 µg vitamin B12 (56% DV) – Critical for red blood cell formation, nervous system health, and energy production.
0.25 mg riboflavin (B2) (18% DV) – Assists in energy metabolism and helps the body break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates efficiently.
~144 mg choline (27% DV) – Essential for brain development, memory, and liver function.
~12 µg selenium (28% DV) – Functions as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and supporting thyroid health.
When Beef Still Wins
Despite higher cost and higher saturated fat, beef remains the superior option for certain groups:
Low-carb / ketogenic / ancestral diet followers: Beef aligns better with these dietary patterns
Athletes and very active individuals: Beef supports muscle protein synthesis and post-exercise recovery effectively
People with iron deficiency or anemia: Beef provides heme iron (14–18% bioavailability), which is absorbed much better than the non-heme iron in eggs (5–12%)
Individuals with vitamin B12 or zinc deficiencies: Beef is one of the richest dietary sources of both
The Bottom Line: Eggs for the Wallet, Beef for Specific Needs
With beef prices projected to remain elevated, eggs stand out as the budget-friendly protein source – nutrient-dense, highly digestible, and significantly cheaper per gram of protein. That said, beef retains its importance for athletes, people with iron or B12 deficiencies, and those with higher muscle recovery demands.
In short:
- Eggs = affordable, versatile, nutrient-rich for everyday nutrition
- Beef = still essential in targeted diets where iron, B12, zinc, and maximum muscle support are needed
Both proteins have their place in a balanced diet, but current economic conditions make eggs the more accessible option for most consumers seeking high-quality protein.
Why Eggs Unlimited?
As one of the largest egg producers in the U.S., Eggs Unlimited is well equipped to face any challenge. That includes increasing demand for eggs, issues with a specific farm, and challenges across the supply chain. As customers explore their egg options, our knowledge, resources, and experience can help them make smart, cost-effective choices.
At Eggs Unlimited, we partner with farmers and suppliers that care about their animals and the environment. We’re proud to work with farmers who follow robust environmental and ethical practices. Plus, with our global reach, we can take on any challenge for customers all around the world. We always have a way to meet – and exceed – our customers’ expectations.
Connect With Top Egg Producers for your boiled eggs
Connect with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to learn more about your egg options. eusales@eggsunlimited.com