Beef consumption in the United States reached a new high in 2021, when 30 billion pounds were consumed. This is an increase in consumption of about 8.7 percent compared to the previous year and the highest consumption recorded during the period under consideration.

United States beef production

The United States is the world’s top producer of beef and veal. In 2022, production exceeding 12.6 million metric tons. To keep up with the production demand, the U.S. was home to about 30 million beef cows in 2022, more than three times the number of dairy cows recorded that year.

The shift towards plant-based foods

There is a large trend among Generation Z consumers to adopt a more vegetarian or vegan diet. Over half of Gen Z consumers are mostly vegetarian, at a minimum, as of 2022. 21 percent, however, are completely vegan, meaning they eat no animal products at all. With this shift away from animal proteins, it is no surprise that the consumption of meat substitutes is expected to exponentially grow within the next several years. By 2027, U.S. meat substitute consumption is forecast to reach 292.5 million kilograms.

This statistic shows the per capita consumption of red meat in the United States from 2010 to 2023, with an estimated figure for 2024, by type. The consumption of beef in the U.S. amounted to 57.6 pounds per capita in 2023, and was estimated to decrease slightly in 2024.

United States Long Term Projections: Per Capita Meat Consumption: Beef data was reported at 55.258 lb in 2034. This records a decrease from the previous number of 55.380 lb for 2033. United States Long Term Projections: Per Capita Meat Consumption: Beef data is updated yearly, averaging 55.360 lb from Dec 2022 (Median) to 2034, with 13 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 59.250 lb in 2024 and a record low of 52.840 lb in 2027. United States Long Term Projections: Per Capita Meat Consumption: Beef data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by U.S. Department of Agriculture. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RI016: Agricultural Projections: Meat Consumption.

This statistic shows the per capita consumption of beef in the United States from 2000 to 2024 and includes a forecast from 2025 to 2034. The U.S. per capita consumption of beef amounted to 58.1 pounds in 2023.

The total beef production in the United States is estimated to be 26.96 billion pounds in 2023, down from 28.29 billion pounds in the previous year. Over the last two decades, the total U.S. beef production has fluctuated slightly but remained stable overall.

Beef retail in the United States Beef has the highest retail sales of any fresh meat in the United States, as of 2021. In that year, over 30 billion U.S. dollars worth of fresh beef were sold in the United States. The retail price for 100 percent ground beef in the United States was 4.8 U.S. dollars per pound in 2022, up from 3.95 U.S. dollars in 2020. Beef brisket, on the other hand, was priced on average around 8.84 U.S. dollars per pound in major grocery retailers.

U.S. beef consumption The United States consumes more beef than any other country in the world. Consumption of beef amounted to around 59 pounds per capita on an annual basis. This was projected to decrease slowly until 2032.

The grass fed beef market is estimated to capture a valuation of US$ 12.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 20.4 billion by 2033. The market is estimated to secure a CAGR of 5% from 2023 to 2033.

Country-wise Insights

Scope of Report

In 2024, the most consumed type of meat in the United States was broiler chicken, at about 102.1 pounds per capita. This figure is expected to increase to around 110.4 pounds per capita by 2034. Chickens in the United States To accommodate the growing demand for chicken among American consumers, there is a rapidly expanding chicken industry in the United States. The overall value of all chickens in America was over 1.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2019. In that same year, an individual chicken in the United States was worth 3.32 U.S. dollars. Meat consumption in the United States On average, Americans purchase fresh meat about 27 times per year, compared to only 4.3 times for fresh seafood. A 2018 survey found that nearly half of Americans eat chicken a couple times a week but not every day, while only 9 percent ate chicken on a daily basis. Ready-to-eat meat/poultry is also very popular among consumers in the United States, with about 40 percent of Americans eating ready-to-eat meat at least once a week as of 2017.

Statistics illustrates consumption, production, prices, and trade of Beef (Cattle Meat) in Aruba from 2007 to 2024.

Statistics illustrates consumption, production, prices, and trade of Beef (Cattle Meat) in Reunion from 2007 to 2024.

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Deli Meat Market Size 2025-2029

The deli meat market size is forecast to increase by USD 110.9 billion at a CAGR of 9.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing significant growth due to several key trends. The expansion of organized retail is driving market growth, as consumers increasingly prefer shopping at large retail stores for their deli meat needs. Deli meats, including beef, pork, chicken, hog, veal, and ovine, are consumed for their versatility in various dishes, such as charcuterie trays, sandwiches, and ready-to-eat meals. Additionally, the rise of plant-based and alternative protein options is challenging traditional players In the market. However, adhering to stringent food safety regulations and labeling requirements remains a major challenge for market participants. Ensuring the safety and quality of deli meat products is essential to maintain consumer trust and meet regulatory compliance. These factors, among others, are shaping the future of the market.

What will be the Size of the Deli Meat Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a wide range of cured and uncured meat products derived from beef, hog, chicken, veal, ovine, and other animals. These meats are available in various forms, including loaves, sliced, prepackaged vacuum-packed portions, canned, and ready-to-cook options. The market's growth is driven by the increasing urbanization and the rising demand for convenience foods. Hypermarkets and supermarkets, as well as specialty stores, are the primary distribution channels for deli meats. Preservatives and food additives are essential in ensuring the extended shelf life of these products. The market for deli meats has seen a trend towards flavored ready-to-eat meats, which cater to diverse consumer preferences.
In addition, the use of natural preservatives and minimally processed meats is also gaining popularity due to health-conscious consumers. The market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, fueled by the increasing demand for protein-rich, convenient, and flavorful food options.

How is this Deli Meat Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The deli meat industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Cured deli meat
  Uncured deli meat


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Source

  Pork
  Chicken
  Beef
  Others


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

    Brazil

By Product Insights

The cured deli meat segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Cured deli meats, including beef, pork, hog, chicken, veal, and ovine varieties, undergo a curing process involving salt, enzymes, and preservatives to enhance flavor and extend shelf life. The prevalence of diseases linked to processed meat consumption, such as cardiovascular diseases and Type 2 diabetes, raises health concerns. Leading companies, such as Hormel Foods and Boar's Head Brand, employ innovative distributive strategies, including online shopping and convenience stores, to cater to the expanding consumer base. Urbanization and hectic lifestyles fuel the demand for convenience foods and dishes, driving the market for cured deli meats. Consumers seek natural, organic, and uncured alternatives, while synthetic hormones, antibiotics, toxic pesticides, and nitrites remain contentious ingredients.

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The cured deli meat segment was valued at USD 95.50 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

Europe is estimated to contribute 32% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The North American market experiences significant growth due to increasing consumer demand for protein-rich, convenient snacking options and the health benefits associated with protein-based diets. Leading companies In the industry, including Hormel Foods and Boar's Head Brand, offer prepackaged vacuum-packed portions, ensuring extended shelf life and convenience for consumers. However, concerns regarding adverse health effects, such as cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 diabetes, and the presence of antibiotics, bacteria, preservatives, and food additives, may deter some consumers.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data

In 2023, around 140 million tons of poultry meat were consumed worldwide, making it the most consumed type of meat globally. Pork was the second most consumed meat worldwide, followed by beef and veal. Leading consumers The per capita consumption of meat is forecast to grow in every part of the world by 2031. OECD countries had the highest per capita consumption of meat from 2019 to 2021, at 69.5 kilograms of retail weight per person. The world average per capita consumption is only about 34.1 kilograms. Shift towards meat substitutes Meat production is a significant greenhouse gas emitter and beef specifically emits more greenhouse gases than any other food product. Because of this and other climate change threats caused by meat production, such as deforestation, meat alternatives have been on the rise. It is projected that by 2040, 25 percent of all “meat” consumed will be vegan meat alternatives and only 40 percent of consumption will be from traditionally produced meat.

The retail price of 100% ground beef in the United States has risen significantly in the last two decades. In 2024, a pound of ground beef cost 5.61 U.S. dollars, up from 2.41 U.S. dollars in 2008. Cattle and beef production in the U.S. In 2022, there were almost 29 million beef cows in the United States. Compared to sheep, pigs, and chickens, cows are very expensive to raise and require much more water, feed, and land per calorie generated. Though beef production fluctuates from year to year, there has been a positive trend in beef production in the last several years in the United States. U.S. beef market In terms of retail sales, beef is the leading type of fresh meat in the United States. On average, beef generates about 19 thousand U.S. dollars in sales per store per week, compared to approximately 10 thousand dollars for chicken, and less than five thousand dollars for pork. As of 2021, per capita consumption of beef in the United States amounted to about 59 pounds per year.

India domestically consumed nearly three million metric tons CWE of beef and veal in 2024. The country stood fourth, after China, Brazil and the EU, in terms of domestic consumption volumes that year.

Statistics illustrates consumption, production, prices, and trade of Beef and Veal (Salted, in Brine, Dried or Smoked) in Colombia from 2007 to 2024.

In the U.S., there have been approximately three times more beef cows than dairy cows each year since 2001. As of 2024, it was estimated that there were about 28 million beef cows and only about 9.3 million dairy cows. Beef vs. dairy cows Both beef and dairy cows are bred for their respective purposes and farmers often look for different qualities in each. Dairy cows are often bigger, as they can produce a larger volume of milk. Beef cows on the other hand are generally shorter and there is more emphasis on their muscle growth, among other qualities. In 2022, over 28 billion pounds of beef were produced in the United States. U.S. milk production and consumption The United States was among the top consumers of milk worldwide in 2022, surpassed only by India and the European Union. The annual consumption of milk in the U.S. that year was just under 21 million metric tons. To keep up with this level of consumption, milk production in the U.S. has increased by over 60 billion pounds since 1999 and is expected to exceed 228 billion pounds by 2023. California and Wisconsin were the top producing states as of 2022, producing about 41.8 and 31.9 billion pounds of milk, respectively.

The United Kingdom has experienced a shift in meat consumption since 2007. Beef, veal, pork, and sheep meat were down in consumption as of 2022. Poultry consumption grew between 2007 and 2022 but will likely stagnate close to the current levels of 30.5 kilograms per person.

This statistic shows the total amount of beef and veal imported and exported by the United States from 2006 to 2024. In 2015, almost 2.3 billion pounds of beef and veal were exported and has since fluctuated slightly, but generally increased. The forecasted amount of beef and veal exported in 2024 is about 2.8 billion pounds.

This statistic shows the distribution of the beef import volume to the United States in 2022, by country of origin. In that year, beef imports to the U.S. from Canada accounted for about 29 percent of total U.S. beef imports.

Chicken was the most consumed meat in Canada in 2022. Canadians were consuming on average 78 pounds of the white meat per capita in this year. Chicken consumption has risen by almost 20 pounds per capita since 1998. Beef and pork consumption, on the other hand, have generally decreased in recent years, amounting to 38.56 and 33.79 pounds per capita respectively in 2022.

Canadian chicken market

The volume of chicken produced in recent years reflects Canadians growing love of the meat. Production reached an all-time high in 2022, with around 1.34 million metric tons of chicken produced in Canada. Whilst production and consumption have increased, average annual household expenditure on chicken has fluctuated. Spending hit a high of 266 Canadian dollars per household in 2015 and has since decreased to 230 dollars. This suggests that whilst Canadians are eating more chicken, they are purchasing cheaper cuts or varieties. Saskatchewan is the province where consumers are most likely to actively include chicken and poultry in their diet, whilst those in Quebec are most likely to avoid white meat.