wellness
Amarillo Residents Discover Plant-Based Protein Sources Beyond Meat
Amarillo residents are shifting toward beans, nuts and dairy to meet daily protein needs amid rising local wellness interest.
How we reported this
Shoppers at the Amarillo Farmers Market on East 10th Avenue bought 40 percent more bulk lentils and chickpeas last month than in June 2025.
July heat and higher beef prices at area grocers have pushed more people in the city toward plant and dairy options that deliver complete protein without requiring a grill. The trend aligns with broader Panhandle interest in active lifestyles, where residents seek meals that support workouts at neighborhood parks and trails.
Local spots stocking alternatives
The Amarillo Co-op on Polk Street carries 25-pound sacks of black beans and cases of Greek yogurt from Texas dairies for $18. Natural Grocers on 34th Street added a new cooler section last week with cottage cheese and roasted edamame priced at $3.29 per bag. Both locations run weekly tastings on Saturday mornings that feature simple bean salads and nut-based spreads.
Numbers that show the shift
USDA data from 2025 recorded an average American intake of 98 grams of protein daily, with plant sources supplying 28 percent of that total in the South Plains region. Local sales records at the co-op show a 32 percent jump in non-meat protein purchases since January. A 16-ounce container of cottage cheese at Natural Grocers now costs $2.79, undercutting a comparable amount of ground beef by $1.20.
Residents can start by swapping half the meat in a taco filling with pinto beans from the farmers market, then add a handful of almonds for an extra 6 grams of protein. Check the co-op or Natural Grocers for current stock before heading out this weekend.