How Much Does Pork Tenderloin Cost Per Pound? A Detailed Look at Prices and Value

Pork tenderloin is one of the most delicious, versatile, and economical cuts of pork. But how much does pork tenderloin cost per pound? Is it an expensive cut or more budget-friendly? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine current pork tenderloin prices per pound, what impacts costs, and how to find the best value on this lean, tender cut of pork.

Current Pork Tenderloin Prices Per Pound

According to the USDA, the current retail price for boneless pork tenderloin ranges from $3.47 to $699 per pound. This can vary considerably by region, season, and source.

Some current pork tenderloin prices per pound from major U.S. grocery retailers include:

• Whole Foods: $7.99 per pound
• Kroger: $5.99 per pound
• Safeway: $5.49 per pound
• Walmart: $4.28 per pound
• Aldi: $3.49 per pound

Direct from farms butcher shops, or farmers markets expect to pay $3.50 to $6.50 per pound. Prices tend to be lower when buying in bulk quantities.

Online mail order companies charge $50 to $90 for an approximately 10 pound box of pork tenderloins. This breaks down to $5 to $9 per pound.

As you can see, regular retail prices range from about $3.50 on the low end up to $8 per pound on the high end But the good news is, pork tenderloin is still one of the most economical cuts of premium pork available

What Impacts the Cost of Pork Tenderloin?

Several factors impact the retail cost of pork tenderloin per pound:

Supply and Demand – Basic economic principles of supply and demand impact meat prices significantly. When demand is high and/or supply lower, prices increase.

Feed Prices – Since feed accounts for 65-75% of pork production costs, feed prices directly affect retail pork costs. Corn and soybean meal are major components.

Transportation Costs – Transporting pork from farms to processors to retailers takes fuel. Increased fuel prices get passed on to consumers.

Packaging and Processing – The costs involved in slaughtering, cutting, packaging, and shipping pork to retailers adds to the final retail cost.

Grocery Store Markups – The retailer needs to make a profit, so they mark up the wholesale price they pay the processor. This retail markup adds to the final consumer price.

Cuts and Quality – Different cuts (chops, roasts, etc.) have different values and prices per pound. Higher quality pork also commands a higher price.

Organic/Natural Designations – Pork certified organic or all-natural will retail for 15-25% more than conventionally raised pork.

Seasons and Holidays – Pork prices fluctuate seasonally, with demand especially high around grill-centric holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.

Location – Regional preferences and proximity to production affect local supply levels and prices. Pork will cost more in areas distant from major production.

How to Find the Best Value on Pork Tenderloin

When shopping for pork tenderloin, use these tips to find the best value:

• Check weekly ads and buy tenderloins when on sale. Stock up when the price is lowest.

• Buy pork tenderloins in bulk quantities whenever possible to get lower per pound pricing.

• Shop at big box stores like Costco or Sam’s Club where the per-unit costs are usually lower.

• Purchase whole pork loins and butcher them into tenderloins yourself. This is the lowest cost way to buy.

• Buy directly from local farms, butchers, or farmers markets to avoid retail markups.

• Consider lesser known cuts like pork sirloin which offers a similar lean, tender quality for much less.

• Substitute chicken, turkey, or non-meat proteins when pork prices are high.

• Use a slow cooker or braise for less expensive tougher cuts to make them tender.

• Stretch tenderloin by pounding thin for cutlets or mixing into dishes like stir fries.

• Use every part creatively like bones for soup stock and leftovers for tacos or omelets.

Is Pork Tenderloin Worth the Price?

While the price of pork tenderloin may seem high compared to ground pork or pork shoulder, it provides great value and versatility for the price. Here’s why it’s worth the cost:

• Extremely Lean and Tender – With just 2 grams of fat per 4 ounce serving, it’s one of the leanest cuts. The tender texture makes it perfect for quick cooking.

• Mild in Flavor – Ultra lean yet still juicy and flavorful. Its mild taste appeals to both kids and adults.

• Quick Cooking – Tenderloins cook faster than other pork cuts, in about 30 minutes. Great for weeknight meals.

• Versatile – Sliced, chopped, stuffed, or whole, tenderloins work for any cuisine. Grill, bake, sauté, or broil.

• Nutritious – A 4 ounce serving contains 120 calories, 24 grams protein, 0 carbs, and lots of vitamins and minerals.

• Easy to Portion – Individual servings are simple. Just slice the whole tenderloin into rounds.

• Impressive Presentation – A whole golden crusted tenderloin is elegant and perfect for dinner parties.

So for a fast and fresh cut that offers incredible tenderness, lean protein, and a mild, adaptable taste, pork tenderloin is hands-down one of the best pork choices for the money.

Current Average Prices and Expected Trends

The current national average retail price for pork tenderloin is around $4.99 per pound. Prices have spiked recently, up about 16% from last year at this time according to market reports.

Experts expect pork tenderloin prices to remain elevated over the next 6-12 months. Strong demand is outpacing supply as pork producers cut back breeding stock. However, costs should moderate as production gradually increases to meet demand.

Check back for updated pricing in your region. And use the cost saving tips provided to score the best deals on tenderloin and other pork products as you shop.

Pork tenderloin offers outstanding versatility, nutrition, convenience, and ease for around $4 to $5 per pound on average. While certainly pricier than ground pork or pork shoulder, the tenderloin’s exceptionally lean, tender qualities make this premium cut well worth the modest additional cost for special meals. Use the advice provided to choose the right size packages, shop sales and specials, and determine where to find the best bargains in your area.