Recently, a viral post regarding the cost of beef at a well-known supermarket has sparked outrage among many people.
Complaints about food prices are nothing new, especially given the current cost of living crisis. However, this time, online users feel more validated in their grievances.
Publix, Florida’s most popular grocery chain, has upset its loyal customer base, who accuse the store of charging ‘criminal’ prices for its premium meat.
An image posted on Reddit over a week ago has stirred strong reactions, with some customers stating they will not be returning to the store anytime soon.
The image showed a shopper holding a 1.23-pound cut of organic prime tenderloin, priced higher than anticipated.
The caption read: “Not only is this meat mediocre, it’s ridiculously priced. What the hell, Publix?! This is the store in Yulee, FL. Only tenderloin on the shelf at all.”
The price tag revealed it was selling for $49.99 per pound, amounting to $61.49 in total.
Though it’s widely known that beef prices have surged in the past year, paying over $60 for a steak is undeniably steep.
This prompted many social media users to express their frustration, with some suggesting it might be more economical to dine out instead.
A comment on Reddit noted: “For that price I’m going to Longhorn [Steakhouse] and have someone cook it for me too.”
Another person stated: “You can get a full ribeye or tenderloin dinner with table bread, 2 sides and softdrinks in Florida at a Outback, texas roadhouse or Longhorn for $26 – $31.”
A third added: “Just don’t buy these products. DONT PAY ABSURD PRICES FOR PROTEINS. Consumers have the power. If we don’t pay these prices they will lower. It’s not that complicated people.
“Eat chicken or whatever is cheaper locally until prices come down. People, you don’t have to pay these prices.”
In contrast, some users argued that the price was reasonable, citing the product’s premium quality as the reason for its high cost.
One supporter of the pricing commented: “That is prime tenderloin they just have that for the holidays. Typically, it’s choice. I bought some a couple weeks ago and it was the best tenderloin I have made at home.”
Another person added: “Prime tenderloin anywhere is going to be absurdly expensive like that. I think I paid close to that for prime New York Strip a couple of years ago before prices went really haywire.”
A third user remarked: “I mean, it’s over a pound of the most premium steaks you can buy… plus it’s organic. The cut they did does suck but it’s prime tenderloin. Just look for prime rib deals.”
Others suggested that if customers aren’t willing to pay the prices, they should simply shop elsewhere.
Publix has been contacted for comment.