Meat and poultry prices in the U.S. are predicted to surge this year, with chicken breast potentially seeing a 70% increase in the first half of 2022, according to Evercore ISI. Pork and ground beef could also rise by 20% during the same period. However, prices for pricier cuts like steak are anticipated to stabilize or even decrease as consumers shift to more affordable options due to rising inflation and feed costs. The war in Ukraine and the surge in wheat prices are significant factors contributing to the increase in protein prices, especially in pork and chicken.