Meat Market

Meat Market Size:

The global meat market size reached USD 1.43 Trillion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1.71 Trillion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 1.91% during 2025-2033. Changing dietary preferences, advancements in meat processing technologies, globalization and trade liberalization, effective marketing and branding, innovations in packaging, the rise of online retail, health and wellness trends promoting leaner meats, and the development of cold chain logistics ensuring safe transport are some of the factors fostering the market growth.

Meat Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: The rise in disposable incomes and rapid urbanization, especially in developing countries, has considerably surged the demand for meat, which is one of the primary factors bolstering the meat market share. In line with this, the growing popularity of protein-rich diets and surging celebrity endorsements of protein-rich meat products are some of the factors providing a thrust to the market growth. Furthermore, development in meat processing and preservation technologies have increased products shelf-life, further influencing consumer purchasing behavior and driving the market growth. Moreover, the rise of retail chains and e-commerce platforms, such as LuLu, has surged the demand for meat, which is another factor boosting meat consumption. In addition to this, government policies promoting meat production and trade and shifting consumer preference for convenient foods and ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products are creating a positive outlook for the market.
• Key Market Trends: Several major global shifts are significantly impacting the demand for meat. Increasing health consciousness is driving consumer demand for organic and antibiotic-free meats. Additionally, growing environmental concerns are fueling a preference for locally sourced and sustainably produced meats, further boosting market growth. Moreover, with the rise of alternative protein sources, such as plant-based foods and lab-grown meat, the market landscape has witnessed a considerable change. Additionally, there is a trend towards premium and specialty meats, which is stimulating the market growth. Apart from this, the availability of e-commerce and online meat delivery services have surged consumer convenience, which is fostering the market growth.
• Geographical Trends: Asia-Pacific is the largest market meat, which can be attributed to the population growth and increasing meat consumption in countries like China, and India. Meat consumption in these countries has increased sharply due to rising incomes and urbanization. Moreover, Western European countries also have substantial markets due to high meat consumption and presence of robust meat processing industries. In Europe, countries like Germany and Spain both have large meat processing industries and high per capita consumption, which is boosting the meat market outlook.
• Competitive Landscape: The competitive landscape of the market is characterized by the presence of key meat companies, such as BRF S.A., Cargill Incorporated, Clemens Food Group, Conagra Brands Inc., Hormel Foods Corporation, JBS S.A., Minerva Foods SA, NH Foods Ltd., Sysco Corporation, Tyson Foods Inc., Vion Food Group, WH Group Limited, etc.
• Challenges and Opportunities: One of the biggest challenges in the meat market is the environmental impact of meat production, greenhouse gas emissions and resource usage, which has further surged the need for sustainability. Besides this, health risks associated with meat consumption is another challenge, due to which umpteen consumers are reducing their meat intake. Regulatory compliance and food safety standards are also stringent, which has completed the key market players to invest in quality control and assurance. However, the growing demand for premium and specialty meat is an opportunity for the market.
   

Meat Market Trends:

Increasing Global Population

Currently, there is a rapid increase in the global population, and this is considered to be among the main factors boosting the meat market. According to the current industry reports, the global population is estimated at 7.6 billion is expected to reach 8.6 billion in 2030, 9.8 billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion in 2100. The world population is increasing, which has further surged the need for protein such as meat. This trend is highly observable and is more apparent in the developing nations where population growth rates are on the rise. Moreover, meat is a staple food tradition in most societies as it contains protein, iron, and vitamin in equal measure. As a result, there is a proportional increase in the consumption of meat. Additionally, as populations expand, urban areas also grow, leading to higher meat consumption patterns typically associated with urban lifestyles. 

Urbanization and Dietary Changes

Urbanization is a key driver of the global meat market. As people migrate to urban areas, their eating habits change, which has considerably boosted the product demand. Urban life comes with higher disposable income and exposure to more food cultures, which has burgeoned demand for protein rich diets with variety of meat products. This trend is especially evident in emerging markets where urbanization is transforming traditional diets to include more meat and processed food. Urban areas also provide better access to modern retail channels like supermarkets and online grocery stores, due to which meat products are more accessible to consumers. Apart from this, the shifting consumer preference for convenience, ready to cook or pre-cooked meat products is another growth-inducing factor for the market.

Advancements in Meat Processing Technologies

Technological advancements are fostering the global meat market. Processing innovations have made meat products more efficient, better, and safer for consumers. Modern meat processing technologies include automation, improved slaughter methods, and advanced packaging that extends the life of meat products and keeps them fresh. Automation in meat processing plants increases speed and consistency, reduces costs and minimizes human error, which is further accelerating the market growth. Besides this, innovations in packaging like vacuum sealing and modified atmosphere packaging keeps meat fresh for longer, reduces waste and ensures product safety during transport and storage, which is further supporting the market growth.

Meat Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on the type, product, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Type:

• Raw
• Processed
   

Raw accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type. This includes raw and processed. According to the report, raw represented the largest segment.

The raw meat segment is driven by the increasing consumer preference for fresh, unprocessed meat, which is perceived as healthier and more natural. Additionally, rising disposable incomes in developing regions enable consumers to afford higher-quality fresh meat products. The growing trend of home cooking and culinary experimentation also fuels demand, as consumers seek raw ingredients for diverse and authentic recipes. Improved cold chain logistics and advancements in refrigeration technology ensure the freshness and safety of raw meat during transport and storage, further boosting its market appeal. Moreover, the popularity of raw diets, particularly among fitness enthusiasts and pet owners, contributes to the segment's growth, emphasizing the importance of fresh, high-quality meat in daily nutrition.

Breakup by Product:

• Chicken
• Beef
• Pork
• Mutton
• Others
   

Chicken accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes chicken, beef, pork, mutton, and others. According to the report, chicken represented the largest segment.

 The chicken segment is driven by the increasing demand for affordable and versatile protein sources. Chicken is often priced lower than other meats, making it accessible to a broader consumer base, especially in developing economies. Additionally, its versatility in various cuisines and easy incorporation into diverse dishes make it a staple in many diets worldwide. Health-conscious consumers favor chicken for its lower fat content compared to red meats, aligning with trends towards leaner, healthier protein options. Advancements in poultry farming and production technologies have also increased the efficiency and scale of chicken production, ensuring a steady supply. Furthermore, the growth of quick-service restaurants and fast-food chains, which prominently feature chicken products, fuels demand. Marketing campaigns emphasizing chicken's health benefits and versatility, coupled with the expansion of e-commerce and online grocery shopping, have made chicken more accessible than ever.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Departmental Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Stores
• Others
   

Supermarkets and hypermarkets accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, departmental stores, specialty stores, online stores, and others. According to the report, supermarkets and hypermarkets represented the largest segment.

The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment are driven by the increasing demand for convenience and one-stop shopping experiences. Urbanization and the rise in disposable incomes have led consumers to prefer large retail formats that offer a wide variety of products under one roof. Additionally, the growth of private label products, which provide cost-effective alternatives to branded goods, is attracting more customers to these stores. Technological advancements, such as self-checkout systems and digital payment options, enhance the shopping experience, making it more efficient and appealing. Furthermore, supermarkets and hypermarkets are leveraging data analytics to better understand consumer preferences and tailor their product offerings accordingly. Enhanced supply chain management ensures a steady availability of fresh and diverse products, further driving footfall. Promotions, loyalty programs, and the integration of online and offline shopping channels also play a significant role in attracting and retaining customers.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

Asia Pacific leads the market, accounting for the largest meat market share

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share.

 The Asia Pacific regional market is driven by the increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes, leading to higher meat consumption. Rapid economic growth in countries like China and India has expanded the middle class, boosting demand for protein-rich diets. Additionally, the region's cultural preference for meat in various traditional cuisines fuels market growth. Technological advancements in meat processing and cold chain logistics enhance production efficiency and product quality, supporting market expansion. Government support through favorable policies and subsidies for meat production also plays a significant role. The growing popularity of online retail and e-commerce platforms provides consumers with easier access to a wide variety of meat products. Health and wellness trends in the region are driving demand for leaner and organic meat options. Moreover, globalization and trade agreements facilitate the import and export of meat products, broadening market reach.

Competitive Landscape:

• The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the major market players in the meat include BRF S.A., Cargill Incorporated, Clemens Food Group, Conagra Brands Inc., Hormel Foods Corporation, JBS S.A., Minerva Foods SA, NH Foods Ltd., Sysco Corporation, Tyson Foods Inc., Vion Food Group, WH Group Limited, etc.

  (Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

• Key players in the global meat market are actively expanding their operations and innovating to capture a larger market share. They are investing heavily in advanced meat processing technologies to enhance production efficiency and ensure high-quality products. To meet the rising consumer demand for convenience, they are developing a range of ready-to-cook and pre-cooked meat products. Sustainability is also a focus, with companies adopting eco-friendly practices and improving animal welfare standards. Marketing and branding efforts are being intensified to build strong brand loyalty and expand market presence, often through strategic collaborations and partnerships. Additionally, they are leveraging e-commerce platforms to reach a broader audience, providing consumers with easy access to a variety of meat products. Health trends are being addressed by offering leaner and organic meat options, catering to the growing preference for healthier diets. These strategies collectively enable key players to maintain competitiveness and drive growth in the dynamic meat market. 

Meat Market News:

• In 2024: Tyson Foods received USDA approval for a "climate-friendly" label on its Brazen Beef brand, claiming a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions during production. However, there has been controversy surrounding this certification, as critics point out that the underlying data supporting these claims has not been publicly disclosed. This lack of transparency has raised concerns about the validity of the "climate-friendly" label and the actual environmental impact of Tyson's beef products.
• In 2024: Cargill Incorporated announced a significant diversification of its protein investments to include both traditional and alternative proteins. The company has expanded its meat processing capabilities by acquiring two new plants in the U.S. to boost production of beef and pork products. Additionally, Cargill is investing in cultivated meat and plant-based proteins, including a partnership with Spanish start-up Cocuus to produce 3D-printed plant-based bacon.

Meat Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the meat market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global meat market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the meat industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.