The U.S. is one of the world's leading meat producers. That hasn't been enough to shield Americans from soaring beef prices

Shoppers search for meat and pork product inside Walmart store (Credit: Bob Riha, Jr./Getty Images)

It’s officially grilling season in the U.S., but when it comes to one of the most beloved protein sources in the country, Americans are getting forced into difficult decisions in supermarket aisles across the country.

The average price of a pound of ground beef hit a record average retail price of $6.90 last month, up around 19% from a year ago.