As protein continues to dominate headlines and the focus of the American diet, new research from Pete & Gerry’s Organics, LLC (parent company of Pete & Gerry’s and Nellie’s Free Range Eggs) reveals a clear preference in how consumers are meeting that demand: seeking fewer highly processed, protein-fortified products in favor of simple, whole foods like eggs.

According to the company’s new “Protein Preferences: The Egg Came First” report, more than 4 in 10 Americans say they are more focused on protein than they were five years ago, signaling a sustained evolution in eating habits. But as the protein category becomes increasingly crowded and confusing, consumers are gravitating toward foods they recognize, trust, and understand.

As part of this mindset shift, eggs are gaining renewed attention as a reliable, everyday protein source. Nearly two-thirds of Americans say they eat eggs weekly specifically for their protein content, reinforcing their role as a staple in the modern protein routine.

“Protein has become a daily priority, but consumers are becoming more selective about how they get it,” said Tom Flocco, CEO of Pete & Gerry’s. “What we’re seeing is a return to basics—people are choosing real, minimally processed foods they trust. Pete & Gerry’s eggs have always delivered on that, and now there’s even greater appreciation for their simplicity, versatility and quality.”

The report also highlights a growing demand for transparency—especially among younger consumers—as more Americans prioritize not just how much protein they eat, but also an understanding of where it comes from. More than 70% of Gen Z and Millennials (ages 18-34) say it’s important to know the sourcing practices behind their protein, reflecting more mindful, informed eating habits. As a result, many are gravitating toward simple, “real” food options such as humanely raised eggs, like those from Pete & Gerry’s, that offer both high-quality nutrition and transparent farming practices.

Key findings include:

• More than 4 in 10 Americans say they’re more focused on protein than they were five years ago.
• Eggs are ranked first as the healthiest and most trusted source of protein above other protein solutions, including meat, seafood, beans & legumes, tofu, protein bars and fortified drinks and snacks.
• The majority of Americans believe whole foods, like eggs, offer better nutrition than protein bars and powders.
• Over 70% of Gen Z and Millennial's (18–34) say it’s important to know the sourcing behind their protein choices.

For Pete & Gerry’s, a brand built on humane farming practices, strong partnerships with family farms, and a commitment to transparency, this consumer priority aligns directly with their long-standing mission. Through ongoing “egg-ucation” efforts, the company continues to help consumers better understand where their food comes from and why it matters.

“As more people question what’s in their food and how it’s produced, transparency is no longer a nice-to-have, it’s expected,” Flocco said. “That’s where we believe we can continue to lead. Our pioneership in humanely raised eggs serves as a trusted voice in the broader protein conversation.”

About the Pete & Gerry's Family of Brands
The Pete & Gerry's family has been raising hens for generations and is committed to bringing consumers the highest-quality organic, free-range and pasture-raised eggs via its brands and products, including Pete & Gerry’s Organic Pasture Raised, Pete & Gerry's Organic Free Range, Pete & Gerry's Pasture Raised, and Nellie's Free Range. Pete & Gerry's is a values-led company dedicated to the humane treatment of animals and to supporting the livelihoods of family farmers, each of whom follow the strictest standards of humane animal treatment, safety, and environmental sustainability. In 2003, the company became the first Certified Humane egg producer in the U.S., and in 2013 it led the egg industry by achieving Certified B Corporation status. Pete & Gerry's believes hens deserve a safe, comfortable place to live a happy, healthy, natural lifestyle, and that family farmers deserve the right to keep their land and income without having to resort to the unhealthy and inhumane factory-farm practices plaguing this country.