As everyday items get more expensive, stores are becoming increasingly aware of shoplifters.
While shoplifting rates have remained largely consistent over the past decade, fears about a potential increase are high. Elevated prices and viral shoplifting stories have many retailers on edge, and in response, they’re taking stronger measures to protect their merchandise.
Most people are familiar with some level of anti-shoplifting technology. For example, garments bought at clothing stores often need to have security tags removed. Certain items from drugstores are behind lock and key. But steak? According to one internet user, that’s the latest item to get the protected treatment.
What’s Off About This Walmart Steak?
In a video with over 1.2 million views, TikTok user @confusion.dac shows the refrigerated section at Walmart. Steaks line the shelves—sealed in wire security devices.
“Y’all doing Walmart so bad, they gotta lock these steaks up,” the TikToker says. “Boy, they not playing with y’all now.”
He then shows the price. For “premium choice” ribeye steaks, the price is $20.97 per pound. This means that, for two steaks, a Walmart customer is shelling out $45.09.
To the TikToker, this high price—and the fact that the steak is sealed in a cage—is a major shock.
“$45 for a steak, and they locking the s— up tight,” the TikToker continues.
Is This The First Time Walmart Is Locking Up Steaks?
While this may have been a new experience for the TikToker, internet users have documented Walmart locations locking up their steaks for years. In fact, a video showing this very phenomenon went viral back in 2022.
It’s not just steak, either. One user on TikTok claimed they had to ask for assistance to unlock a case containing Spam.
This high price for choice steaks, in contrast, is fairly new. Experts say that these high prices are happening for a variety of reasons. First, the cost of raising cattle has gone up. Second, fewer cattle are being raised. Finally, tariffs are affecting the American beef supply—though this mainly affects ground beef, not steak.
That doesn’t mean the exact prices shown in the video are universal. Choice ribeye steaks from other sellers, such as Aldi, are currently selling for $14.79 per pound. Costco’s choice ribeye sells for between $16.99 and $17.99 per pound.
Is There Any Way To Save Money On Steak?
Seeing these hefty prices, one may wonder if there’s any way to save money while buying beef.
The short answer is “yes,” but it’s going to take some careful shopping.
Naturally, someone in search of quality beef at the right price can always go from store to store until they find the perfect cut. That said, there are many more—easier—options for those seeking great beef at a discount.
For example, there are a variety of cuts that don’t have the same name recognition as New York Strip or Ribeye but can still offer a fantastic dining experience. Internet users have recently sung the praises of the Denver Steak, which is a tasty cut that can still be purchased for a low price. Additionally, shoppers have noted that certain chuck roast cuts can be turned into high-quality steaks.
Finally, shoppers can also save some cash by buying larger cuts and slicing them into smaller steaks.
Commenters Are Shocked
In the comments section, users couldn’t believe that Walmart was going this far to lock up their steaks.
“$45 for a steak is more robbery then anything,” said a user.
“So they spend money making / installing these cages rather than being down the prices,” declared another. “They are asking to be stolen from.”
“Along with socks, baby food, laundry detergent, clothes, pet food,” noted a third about the increased security measures. “It’s ridiculous.”
BroBible reached out to @confusion.dac via TikTok direct message and comment and Walmart via media relations contact form.