Every year, it seems the BBQ gets more expensive. But this year, there’s finally an explanation.

The culprit for higher-priced BBQ isn't just beef this time.

Propane prices are climbing. Not because of seasonal demand, but because Middle East tensions are pushing energy costs up across the board. When energy gets expensive, it moves through the entire food system. From running feedlots to filling your tank before the first cook of the season.

WHY BEEF COSTS WHAT IT COSTS

The beef situation has been building for years. Here's where it stands:

The herd is the smallest it's been in 75 years. Drought, rising costs, and an aging ranching workforce forced producers to cut back. Less supply means higher prices.

Beef climbed roughly 16% in a single year. From about $8.70 per pound in early 2025 to over $10 a year later, per USDA data.

THE PROPANE PROBLEM

Middle East conflict is pushing energy prices higher. Propane doesn't exist in a bubble. When diesel and fuel costs spike, so does every step in the supply chain, including distribution.

Plus… beef production runs on energy. Feed transportation, feedlot operations, processing facilities. All of it costs more when energy is expensive. Those costs land on the consumer.

There's no quick fix on supply. Rebuilding a cattle herd takes years. More cattle were placed on feed in the last six months than were marketed, which means relief is coming, but not this summer.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR OUR SUMMER PLANS

Raise your hand if you have no intention of cutting down on your meaty Summer BBQ plans 🙋

Nobody's telling you to stop cooking. But it’s kind of nice knowing why your ribeye costs what it costs, and why the propane refill stung a little more than last year.

Value cuts are having a moment for a reason: flat iron, flank, chuck. Right now, those are the cuts that reward a cook who knows what they're doing.

What do you think, Dead Meat Society? Are you adjusting what you're cooking this season, or staying the course?