In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 most meat eating states per capita. If you wish to learn about the US meat market, head straight to the 20 Most Meat Eating States Per Capita.
5. South Dakota
Total Score: 0.8
South Dakota stands fifth among the most meat eating states per capita with a robust animal agriculture industry, particularly in beef and pork production. According to the South Dakota Economic Analysis of Animal Agriculture, the state’s animal agriculture consumed nearly 347.9 thousand tons of soybean meal in 2021, with hogs, dairy cows, and turkeys being the top consumers. In 2019, cattle and calves generated $2.1 billion in sales, making it the largest source of cash receipts from agriculture.
4. Nebraska
Total Score: 0.85
Nebraska emerges as a critical player in meat consumption and production, evidenced by its top agricultural exports, including beef and pork. With cattle production being the largest segment of its agricultural industry, Nebraska stands out as one of the top cattle-producing states in the U.S. The state’s 1.8 million cows and annual feeding of nearly 5 million head total almost 6.8 million cattle, surpassing its human population by over 3.5 times. The animal industry’s economic footprint in Nebraska amounts to $13.2 billion, with 1 in 4 jobs in the state related to agriculture.
3. Missouri
Total Score: 0.9
Missouri is one of the top meat-eating states in the U.S., with high consumer demand for pork chops, chicken breast, and beef steak. Commercial red meat production has surged over the past three decades, with Missouri producing 1.887 billion pounds in 2014. The state boasts a robust animal slaughtering and meat processing industry, accounting for $3.45 billion in sales. With a cattle inventory of 1,956,000 beef cows and 90,000 cattle on feed, Missouri ranks among the top 10 states for beef cow inventory. In 2020, cattle production in Missouri totaled 1.343 billion pounds, valued at $1.669 billion. The state’s agriculture is primarily dominated by soybeans and corn, comprising 87% of all crop value.
2. Oklahoma
Total Score: 0.95
Oklahoma stands second among the most meat eating states per capita., strongly emphasizing beef and pork consumption. Regarding beef, Oklahoma ranks as the 2nd largest beef cow state in the U.S., with beef production being a vital component of the state’s economy, driven mainly by family-owned and operated farms. Oklahoma’s pork production is substantial, with 2.02 billion pounds of hog marketings in 2022, contributing to cash receipts totaling $1.48 billion.
1. Texas
Total Score: 1.0
Texas stands out as a leading state in the U.S. for meat consumption and meat market revenue. Revenue projections for meat markets in Texas indicate growth to approximately $622.0 million by 2024. Texas leads the nation in the number of farms and ranches, with cattle farms dominating and an increase in farms with poultry inventory since 2012. The industry profile for Butchers and Meat Cutters in Texas reveals substantial employment figures, with 100,200 employees in Food and Beverage Retailers and 9,040 employees in Animal Slaughtering and Processing.
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