In this article, we take a look at the 5 Most Consumed Meats in the World. For a detailed and comprehensive market analysis, go to the 15 Most Consumed Meats in the World.
5. Lamb Meat
Consumption 2021: 18 million tons
Amidst this growing appetite for meats, one may wonder – what are the top 5 most consumed meats in the world? Lamb ranks fifth among the top 5 most consumed meats in the world. Lamb is not only popular in regions such as Greece, New Zealand, and Australia but also widely consumed and appreciated in the Middle East and Asia. Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines often feature lamb as a staple ingredient in various traditional dishes. The flavorful and tender meat is used in kebabs, stews, curries, and many other delightful preparations that are loved by people in these regions.
4. Beef
Consumption 2021: 92 million tons
Beef protein (through meat and supplements) is among the most consumed proteins in the world. Approximately 51% of the world’s beef production was collectively contributed by the United States, Brazil, and China. Specifically, in 2022, the United States accounted for 21.7% of global beef production.
Learn more about 15 Countries that Produce the Best Beef in the World and are renowned for producing the finest beef in the world. Each of these countries has developed its unique approach, resulting in a diverse and exciting culinary landscape within the global beef industry. Notable examples include the rich marbling of Japan’s Wagyu beef, the succulent Angus beef from the United States, and the flavorful Picanha from Brazil.
3. Pork
Consumption 2021: 118 million tons
With consumption levels estimated at 118 million tons, is pork the most consumed meat? Although pork meat is a widely consumed meat globally, it ranks third on our list. Pork meat offers a range of cuts, such as loin, ham, and belly, catering to diverse culinary preferences. With its versatile culinary applications, the demand for pork has been steadily increasing. As of the current projection, the estimated global consumption of pork is expected to reach a substantial 129 million metric tons by 2031. This surge in demand can be attributed to its accessibility, affordability, and favorable taste profile.
2. Chicken
Consumption 2021: 128 million tons
The global chicken market attained a value of $196 billion in 2021, and industry analysts anticipate it to reach $207.6 billion by 2027. The growth of this market can be attributed to the substantial demand for chicken products, which has led to its expansion, consolidation, and internationalization across countries with diverse income levels. Several nations, including China, Brazil, European Union, Russia, India, Mexico, Thailand, Argentina, Turkey, Colombia, and the United States, have all witnessed considerable year-on-year increases in chicken production. Notably, leading producers like the United States, Brazil, and China are projected to experience noteworthy expansion in the forthcoming years.
1. Seafood
Consumption 2021: 180 million tons
Is fish the most consumed meat in the world? Our answer is yes. The global seafood market, encompassing food sourced from the sea, reached a value of $310.75 billion in 2021. It is projected to experience significant growth, increasing from $338.47 billion in 2022 to $730.28 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.92% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2030. Seafood primarily comprises fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, and its consumption is associated with a diverse range of health benefits. These advantageous qualities contribute to the expansion of the seafood market on a global scale.
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