The Protein is Extra  

The protein is extra—and 43% of Americans say protein-enhanced versions of everyday items like bagels, chips, and drinks are worth the higher price, rising to 54% for younger generations. Over 1 in 2 Americans (55%) report protein and protein-added items cost more due to inflation and tariffs, and 52% say the rise of protein products has noticeably increased their grocery spending (60% younger generations). Half (49%) think protein has become a “premium” ingredient and they expect to pay more for foods labeled high-protein (57% younger generations). 

Younger consumers are driving the protein trend, with 56% of Gen Z and Millennials willing to spend more (versus 34% older generations; 44% overall) – adding up to 3x as much money on protein items than Boomers ($71 per week vs $27, respectively). 

As fast-casual counters and beverages deliver options, shoppers are opting in: 48% of people (and 60% of younger generations) often choose grain or salad bowls with added protein, and 42% upgrade meals by adding a 'double protein' option (e.g., double chicken, extra tofu, additional steak), rising to 57% for younger generations. Some 39% say they add a boost to smoothies for an upcharge (53% younger generations; 17% Boomers). Four in 10 (41%) people would reduce spending on other grocery categories (e.g. snacks, produce) to afford more protein-based items (53% Millennials).

Key findings

• Price perception: Half (49%) say protein has become a premium ingredient with higher price expectations, though 65% think most protein-added products are overpriced. 56% of younger consumers are willing to pay more for protein vs. only 34% of older consumers (44% overall).
• On the rise: 52% report protein has noticeably increased their weekly grocery spending (60% of younger consumers). 55% of people say protein and protein-added items cost more due to inflation and tariffs.
• Protein premium: Americans spend an average of $50 a week on protein products, with younger generations leading the pack: Gen Z spends $75, Millennials $67, Gen X $48, and Boomers $27.
• Price premium tolerance: 72% would pay more for protein-enhanced versions; nearly half (49%) would spend between $1–$5 extra, with 23% only comfortable at $1–$2.
• Meal upgrades: 42% regularly upgrade with “double protein” options (57% younger generations). 36% pay extra at restaurants or fast-casual spots to boost protein in their meals (49% younger consumers).
• Brand switching: 43% would switch to a different brand if it offered more protein, rising to 55% for younger generations.
• Category expansion: People are most willing to pay a protein premium for meat (57%), eggs (40%) and dairy (32%), with the trend expanding to categories like pasta (23%) and coffee products (17%). 

Protein price tag

Americans spend an average of $50 a week on protein products, with younger generations spending the most:

• Gen Z - $75
• Millennials - $67
• Gen X - $48
• Boomers - $27

Make it a double 

More than half of people (55%) say they adjust their diet daily to make sure they get enough protein (62% younger generations) and 46% say they buy dedicated 'high-protein' products such as shakes, powders, and bars (60% Millennials; 55% Gen Z; 27% Boomers). Compared to the regular version of a product, 72% would be willing to pay more for added protein or a protein-enhanced version. Though 65% of people think most protein-added products are overpriced, half (49%) will spend between $1- $5 more on them, with 23% open to paying between $1-$2 more. Just 28% would not pay any more money.

When it comes to categories where consumers are most willing to pay a premium for protein, traditional sources like meat (57%), eggs (40%) and dairy (32%) top the list, though the trend is expanding to newer categories like pasta (23%) and coffee products (17%).

In which categories are Americans most willing to pay a premium for protein?

• Meat – 57%
• Eggs – 40%
• Breakfast foods (e.g. cereals, yogurt, oatmeal) – 32%
• Dairy – 32%
• Poultry – 32%
• Snacks (e.g. bars, chips, cookies) - 29%
• Beverages (e.g. protein shakes, smoothies, enhanced waters) - 28%
• Prepared meals/bowls - 25%
• Frozen foods – 24%
• Pasta – 23%
• Coffee products – 17%

Americans are split on their preferred meals: 47% say they are more likely to pay a premium for protein in their lunch or dinner items (58% Millennials), while 44% prefer breakfast items (59% Gen Z).  

Check the label

Half (50%) of shoppers say protein content is one of the first things they check on nutrition labels (vs. 37% of Boomers). When shopping for groceries, 45% actively look for items that have added protein versions (54% younger generations). 

• 49% say when they see 'added protein' on a product label, it makes it more appealing (58% Millennials).
• 46% prefer snacks specifically labeled as “high-protein” (56% younger generations).
• 47% would rather pay extra for protein than for other health-focused add-ons (e.g., fiber, probiotics, vitamins), dipping to 33% of Boomers.
• 43% say even if it costs more, they would switch to a different brand if it offered more protein, rising to 55% for younger generations. 

Methodology: 

Empower’s “The Protein is Extra” study is based on online survey responses from 2,200 Americans ages 18+ from September 6-7, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.