United States Meat Market, By Product Type (Chicken, Beef, Pork, Mutton, Others), By Type (Raw, Processed), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Departmental Stores, Online, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

United States Meat Market was valued at USD 152.78 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow USD 205.34 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.11% during forecast period. The United States meat market is one of the largest and most diverse globally, encompassing beef, pork, poultry, and lamb. Consumer preferences are shifting toward high-quality, premium cuts, with a growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced meat. The market is also seeing an increased interest in plant-based meat alternatives, driven by health, environmental, and ethical concerns. Technological advancements in food production, including lab-grown meat and automation in processing, are reshaping the industry. With a focus on convenience, there is also significant growth in processed and ready-to-eat meat products, catering to busy consumers.

Key Market Drivers

Consumer Demand for Premium and High-Quality Products

In recent years, the United States meat market has experienced a noticeable shift toward premium and high-quality products. This change is driven by evolving consumer preferences for better-tasting, healthier, and more sustainably sourced meat. Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about the quality of the meat they consume, seeking cuts that are both flavorful and free from additives, hormones, and antibiotics.

The growing popularity of grass-fed, organic, and free-range meat options is a reflection of this demand. Beef, in particular, has seen an uptick in sales of premium cuts such as steaks, ribeyes, and tenderloins, as consumers are willing to pay a premium for meat that offers a higher standard of quality. This trend has also led to increased demand for smaller, local farms that can provide more personalized and ethical farming practices.

According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United States and Portugal share the highest per capita meat consumption, with an average of 149 kg (327.8 lbs) per person annually. This high consumption rate significantly drives increased demand for meat in the market.

Health and Wellness Trends

The health and wellness movement is a major driver in the United States meat market. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their dietary choices and are looking for meat options that align with their health-conscious lifestyles. This trend is impacting the way meat is produced, processed, and marketed.

The rise in popularity of lean meats such as chicken and turkey, as well as cuts of beef that are lower in fat, is helping to shape the market. Many consumers are choosing these options in place of higher-fat cuts, as they associate lean meats with healthier eating habits. Additionally, a growing number of individuals are adopting diets that prioritize protein, such as ketogenic and paleo diets, which emphasize meat consumption as a primary source of protein.

On the other side of the spectrum, there is a notable rise in plant-based meat alternatives that cater to health-conscious consumers. Products such as plant-based burgers, sausages, and “meat” from brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are capitalizing on this trend. These products not only appeal to vegans and vegetarians but also attract flexitarians—people who still consume meat but are increasingly looking to reduce their meat intake for health reasons.

Meat is a valuable source of protein and essential nutrients; however, most Americans consume over 1.5 times the recommended daily protein intake and exceed the USDA’s suggested servings from the Protein Foods group. According to current trends, the health and wellness movement is a significant driver of the U.S. meat market.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

Sustainability and ethical concerns are becoming increasingly important to U.S. consumers when it comes to meat consumption. Issues such as animal welfare, environmental impact, and food production practices are driving changes in consumer purchasing decisions. As the environmental consequences of traditional meat production become more widely known, particularly regarding deforestation, water usage, and carbon emissions, consumers are demanding more sustainable meat options.

The popularity of grass-fed and free-range meat reflects this growing concern for sustainability. These methods of production are considered more environmentally friendly and humane, as they typically involve less intensive farming practices and often result in better conditions for the animals. Furthermore, sustainable practices like rotational grazing and reduced use of chemicals are gaining traction among environmentally conscious consumers.

The study reveals that 50% of U.S. consumers under the age of 50 have tried plant-based meat products. This rising interest among younger demographics is fueling substantial market growth, driven by increasing demand for alternative and sustainable food choices.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

Supply Chain Disruptions and Labor Shortages

The United States meat market faces significant challenges due to disruptions in the supply chain and a persistent labor shortage. These issues have become especially prominent since the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused widespread shutdowns and temporary halts in production across various sectors, including meat processing. Although the industry has recovered to some extent, there are still lingering effects on supply chain stability.

Labor shortages, particularly in meat processing plants, have been one of the most critical factors in these disruptions. The meat industry relies heavily on a workforce for tasks such as slaughtering, processing, packaging, and distribution. However, the labor force has been shrinking due to various factors, including poor working conditions, low wages, and the physical demands of meat processing jobs. This has resulted in a reduced capacity to meet consumer demand and increased costs for producers, as they often need to pay higher wages to attract workers or automate processes to replace human labor.

Environmental and Sustainability Concerns

Environmental sustainability is one of the most significant challenges facing the United States meat market. The meat industry, particularly cattle farming, has a substantial environmental footprint, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and excessive water usage. This has led to growing pressure from consumers, regulators, and environmental organizations for the industry to adopt more sustainable practices.

The production of beef is particularly resource-intensive, requiring large amounts of water and feed. Additionally, livestock farming is a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, there is an increasing demand for sustainable meat options, such as grass-fed beef, which has a smaller carbon footprint, or plant-based meat alternatives, which are viewed as more sustainable.

Key Market Trends

Increased Demand for Plant-Based and Lab-Grown Meat Alternatives

One of the most significant trends in the United States meat market is the rise of plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives. Driven by growing concerns about health, sustainability, and animal welfare, consumers are increasingly turning to meat substitutes as a viable option. Plant-based brands such as Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods, and others have gained substantial market share, offering burgers, sausages, and other meat products that closely replicate the taste and texture of traditional meat without using animal products.

These alternatives are popular among a wide range of consumers, from vegans and vegetarians to flexitarians—those who reduce their meat consumption without fully eliminating it. The growth of these products has been supported by the increasing availability of plant-based meat in supermarkets, fast-food chains, and even high-end restaurants, making it easier for consumers to incorporate them into their diets.

Technological Innovations in Meat Production

The United States meat market is also experiencing rapid technological innovation, particularly in the areas of automation, precision farming, and food safety. Automation is transforming the meat processing sector by increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Robotics and artificial intelligence are now being used in slaughterhouses and processing plants to streamline tasks such as packaging, quality control, and sorting. These innovations help reduce labor costs and improve operational efficiency, which is particularly important given the labor shortages that have affected the industry in recent years.

Precision farming technologies are also playing a role in the meat sector. These innovations use data analytics, sensors, and artificial intelligence to optimize animal husbandry practices, ensuring better feed management, improved animal health, and more efficient use of resources such as water and feed. This results in more sustainable meat production practices that align with both environmental and consumer demands for ethically raised animals.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Chicken was the dominating segment in the United States meat market due to its affordability, versatility, and health appeal. As consumers increasingly prioritize leaner protein options, chicken has become a popular choice, particularly for health-conscious individuals. It is widely used across various food categories, including fast food, home cooking, and processed products like nuggets and deli meats. The growth in chicken consumption has also been supported by efficient production methods, making it more accessible and cost-effective compared to beef and pork. Additionally, poultry is considered more environmentally sustainable, further boosting its market dominance in the U.S.

Sales Channel Insights

Supermarkets/hypermarkets dominated the United States meat market due to their widespread reach, convenience, and extensive product offerings. These retail channels provide consumers with a wide variety of meat options, including fresh, frozen, organic, and processed products, catering to diverse preferences. The large-scale operations of supermarkets and hypermarkets enable them to offer competitive prices, making meat accessible to a broad demographic. Additionally, these retailers often feature in-store butcher sections, enhancing the shopping experience. With the growing trend of one-stop shopping, supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to lead as the primary destination for meat purchases in the U.S.

Download Free Sample Report

Regional Insights

The South was the dominating region in the United States meat market due to its strong demand for meat, particularly beef, chicken, and pork. This region's rich agricultural history and large-scale meat production facilities contribute to its leadership in the market. Additionally, Southern cuisine, which prominently features meat-based dishes like barbecue, fried chicken, and steaks, further drives consumption. The region benefits from a significant concentration of meat-processing plants, making it a hub for both production and distribution. Moreover, the South’s growing population and urbanization support increased meat consumption, reinforcing its dominance in the U.S. meat market.

Recent Developments

• In April 2023, ​GoodDot, an Indian plant-based meat company, has expanded into the U.S. market through a partnership with ADF Foods Ltd. The company offers products like Plant-based Lamb Nihari, Butter Chicken, and Jackfruit Curry under the Ashoka brand, available in ethnic Indian stores across the U.S.

• In Feb 2025, Jollibee has introduced new Chicken Tenders in the U.S., featuring 100% white meat, marinated and hand-breaded in-store. The tenders are accompanied by a Signature Tender Sauce, offering a blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, along with five other dipping options: Chickenjoy Gravy, Pineapple BBQ, Honey Mustard, Creamy Sriracha Mayo, and Ranch.

• In April 2025, ​TiNDLE Foods has significantly expanded its U.S. retail presence by launching its plant-based chicken products in 500 new grocery stores, including Kroger-affiliated chains like Fred Meyer, Ralphs, and Smith’s. This expansion marks TiNDLE's debut in the West Coast and Mountain regions, bringing its total U.S. retail locations to over 1,300.

Key Market Players

• Tyson Foods, Inc.
• JBS USA Holdings, Inc.
• Cargill Meat Solutions Corp.
• Smithfield Foods Inc.
• Sysco Corporation
• Hormel Foods Corporation
• Perdue Farms, Inc.
• OSI Group
• Foster Poultry Farms, LLC
• Sanderson Farms, Inc.

Report Scope:

In this report, the United States Meat Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• United States Meat Market, By Product Type:

o   Chicken

o   Beef

o   Pork

o   Mutton

o   Others

• United States Meat Market, By Type:

o   Raw

o   Processed

• United States Meat Market, By Sales Channel:

o   Supermarkets/Hypermarkets

o   Specialty Stores

o   Departmental Stores

o   Online

o   Others

• United States Meat Market, By Region:

o   South

o   West

o   Midwest

o   Northeast

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the United States Meat Market.

Available Customizations:

United States Meat Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

United States Meat Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at sales@techsciresearch.com