Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. whey protein
    • ex. Whey protein contains nutrients that build muscles and burn fat.
  2. sharply
    • ex. The price of eggs rose sharply after the storm damaged many farms.
  3. a manufacturer
    • ex. The toy manufacturer improved its products after parents reported safety concerns.
  4. tight
    • ex. Water supplies are tight this summer because there has been very little rain.
  5. grocery costs
    • ex. Many people are worried about grocery costs because food is becoming more expensive.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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More people around the world are buying high-protein foods. This has caused a shortage of whey protein and made its price go up to the highest level. Whey protein is a protein that comes from milk during the cheese-making process. It is often used by athletes and older adults to help build and repair muscles. Now, food companies are adding it to many products, including cereals, chips, bagels, and coffee drinks.

American supermarkets now sell more than 38,000 products that highlight their protein content. Companies are making high-protein products to attract people who want to lose weight or stay full longer. Experts say demand is growing faster than supply. This leaves less whey protein available for export and increases pressure on the market.

As demand rises, whey protein prices have increased sharply in both the United States and Europe. These higher costs are affecting consumers, with protein powders and protein-enriched foods becoming more expensive. Although manufacturers are investing in new whey protein production, experts say supplies will remain tight for now. And because of rising grocery costs, some consumers may stop buying protein products.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.
Photo Credits: The Associated Press

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

High-Protein Foods and Products

  • Do you think companies should add protein to many different foods, like chips and coffee drinks? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Why do you think more people are buying high-protein products? Discuss.
  • Have you ever bought a product because it said “high protein” on the package? Why or why not? Discuss.

Rising Grocery Costs

  • What foods have become more expensive in your country? Discuss.
  • When food prices go up, what changes do you think people should make in their shopping habits? Discuss.
  • How do rising grocery costs change the way people plan their meals? Discuss.