Top 5 Countries with the Highest Meat Consumption

In this article, we will be covering the top 5 countries with the highest meat consumption. If you want to read our detailed analysis of the meat industry and consumption trends, go directly to the Top 20 Countries with the Highest Meat Consumption.

5. Mexico

Total Annual Meat Consumption: 9.16 million tons

Population: 128,932,750

Per Capita Annual Meat Consumption: 71.05 kg

Beef is widely consumed in Mexico and is a common ingredient in numerous dishes. Carne asada (grilled beef), arrachera (marinated skirt steak), and bistec a la Mexicana (Mexican-style steak) are popular beef dishes in the country.

4. Russia

Total Annual Meat Consumption: 11.22 million tons

Population: 145,934,460

Per Capita Annual Meat Consumption: 77.74 kg

Russia has a deep-rooted connection with meat as a part of its culinary customs. Beef and pork are the most commonly consumed meats in Russia. They are used in a variety of dishes such as beef stroganoff (sautéed beef in a creamy sauce), pork kotleti (breaded and fried pork cutlets), and shashlik (marinated and grilled skewered meat).

3. Brazil

Total Annual Meat Consumption: 21.08 million tons

Population: 212,559,420

Per Capita Annual Meat Consumption: 99.15 kg

Brazil is another country on our list that is popular for its high levels of beef consumption. Churrasco, the Brazilian barbecue tradition, involves grilling different cuts of beef over an open flame. Picanha (top sirloin cap), maminha (tri-tip), and costela (beef ribs) are some of the favoured cuts in the country.

2. USA

Total Annual Meat Consumption: 42.57 million tons

Population: 331,002,650

Per Capita Annual Meat Consumption: 128.62 kg

The USA has a well-known fast-food culture, where meat-based food like hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, and hot dogs are popular choices. Fast-food chains are widespread in the country and offer convenient access to meat-based meals. Pork consumption is also prevalent in the United States.

1. China

Total Annual Meat Consumption: 91.37 million tons

Population: 1,471,286,870

Per Capita Annual Meat Consumption: 62.10 kg

China is the largest consumer of meat on an annual basis. Pork is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is used in a wide variety of dishes, including stir-fries, braised dishes, soups, and dumplings. Popular pork dishes include sweet and sour pork, char siu (barbecued pork), and mapo tofu (tofu cooked with minced pork in a spicy sauce).

Disclosure: None. You can also take a look at the 16 Least Profitable Industries in the US and the 15 Largest Aluminum Producing Countries In The World.