Meat Market Trends and Forecast
The future of the global meat market looks promising with opportunities in the poultry, pork, beef, and sheep markets. The global meat market is expected to reach an estimated $1251 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 2% from 2024 to 2030. The major drivers for this market are increasing poultry meat consumption, demand for protein based food products, and increasing demand for processed meat.
• Lucintel forecasts that, within the meat type category, processed meat is expected to witness higher growth over the forecast period.
• Within the livestock category, poultry meat will remain the largest segment.
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Emerging Trends in the Meat Market
The meat market is experiencing significant shifts as consumer preferences and technological advancements evolve. Emerging trends are reshaping the industry, with a strong focus on sustainability, health, and alternative sources of protein. As global concerns around environmental impact and ethical considerations rise, these trends are influencing production, consumption, and innovation in the meat industry.
• Plant-based and cultured meat: The rise of plant-based and cultured (lab-grown) meats is one of the most significant emerging trends. These alternatives aim to provide more sustainable and ethical options compared to traditional meat, with advancements in taste, texture, and nutritional profile.
• Meat substitutes and blends: There is growing interest in meat substitutes and blends that combine traditional meat with plant-based ingredients. These products are designed to appeal to both meat eaters and those looking to reduce their meat consumption while still enjoying familiar flavors and textures.
• Blockchain for traceability: Blockchain technology is increasingly being used to improve traceability and transparency in the meat supply chain. This technology can provide detailed information about the origin, processing, and quality of meat products, addressing consumer concerns and enhancing food safety.
• Personalized nutrition: Advances in personalized nutrition are leading to tailored meat products designed to meet specific dietary needs or health goals. This trend includes developing meat products that are enriched with specific nutrients or designed to fit individualized dietary requirements.
• Alternative proteins and insects: Research and development into alternative protein sources, including insects and microalgae, are gaining traction. These sources are seen as sustainable and efficient ways to meet global protein demands.
The future of the meat market will be defined by the increasing demand for plant-based, cultured, and alternative protein products. Innovations such as blockchain for traceability and personalized nutrition are also poised to play a key role in improving consumer trust and health outcomes. As these trends gain momentum, the meat industry will continue to adapt to meet both environmental and consumer demands, shaping the future of food production and consumption.
Recent Development in the Meat Market
The meat industry is experiencing significant changes driven by various factors, including sustainability concerns, animal welfare, and consumer demand for healthier options. As the market evolves, meat producers are adopting new practices and technologies to address these issues while maintaining product quality and safety. Emerging trends reflect a growing commitment to reducing environmental impacts, improving animal welfare, and providing more transparency and healthier options to consumers.
• Sustainability initiatives: Many meat producers are adopting more sustainable practices, including reducing water and energy usage, improving waste management, and exploring ways to reduce their carbon footprint. These efforts aim to improve the efficiency of meat production and minimize its environmental impact.
• Animal welfare improvements: There has been a focus on enhancing animal welfare standards in meat production. This includes better living conditions for livestock, improved handling practices, and stricter regulations on humane slaughter methods.
• Technological advancements in processing: Advances in meat processing technologies have improved product consistency, safety, and efficiency. This includes innovations in automation, improved food safety protocols, and enhanced traceability systems to track meat from farm to table.
• Labelling and transparency: Increased consumer demand for transparency has led to more detailed labeling. This includes information on the origin of the meat, production methods, and nutritional content, helping consumers make more informed choices.
• Health and nutrition focus: There is a growing emphasis on producing healthier meat products, such as those with lower fat content, reduced sodium, and added nutrients. This is driven by consumer awareness of health and wellness.
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Strategic Growth Opportunities for Meat Market
The meat, a vital segment of the global food industry, presents several strategic growth opportunities driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and market dynamics:
• Rise of health-conscious consumers: Growing awareness about health and nutrition is driving demand for leaner meat options and organic products. Consumers are increasingly seeking meats with lower fat content, reduced sodium, and free from antibiotics and hormones. Offering premium, grass-fed, and organic meat products can cater to this health-conscious demographic and capitalize on the trend toward healthier eating.
• Plant-based and alternative proteins: The rise of plant-based and alternative protein sources presents both challenges and opportunities for the meat market. While plant-based meat substitutes are gaining popularity, there is also an opportunity for traditional meat producers to invest in developing hybrid products that combine meat with plant-based ingredients. Additionally, investing in lab-grown or cultured meat technologies can position companies at the forefront of the sustainable protein movement.
• Innovation in meat processing technologies: Advancements in meat processing technologies, such as high-pressure processing (HPP) and improved preservation techniques, can enhance product quality, extend shelf life, and reduce food safety risks. Implementing these technologies can help meat producers meet evolving consumer expectations for convenience, freshness, and safety, while also differentiating themselves in the competitive market.
• Expansion into emerging markets: Rapid urbanization and rising incomes in emerging markets such as the Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are driving increased meat consumption. Expanding distribution networks, tailoring products to local tastes, and establishing strategic partnerships with regional distributors can help capture growth in these high-potential markets.
• Focus on sustainability and ethical practices: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact and ethical considerations of meat production. Implementing sustainable farming practices, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving animal welfare can enhance brand reputation and appeal to environmentally and socially conscious consumers. Certifications and transparent sourcing practices can further build trust and loyalty.
• E-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels: The growth of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales channels offers significant opportunities for meat producers to reach consumers directly. Developing online platforms and leveraging digital marketing strategies can enhance customer engagement, provide personalized product offerings, and streamline distribution processes.
By taking advantage of these strategic growth opportunities, the meat market can realize its full potential and transform numerous industries through strength, lightness, and versatility.
Meat Market Driver and Challenges
Meat plays an important role in many types of diets, including fresh and processed meat. The changing market dynamics are being driven by the increasing global population, rising disposable incomes, and changing dietary preferences. However, challenges such as health concerns and environmental impact persist.
The factors responsible for driving the meat market include:
• Increasing global population: The growing global population leads to higher demand for meat as a major source of protein, particularly in emerging markets where meat consumption is rising with increased income levels.
• Rising disposable incomes: As disposable incomes increase, particularly in developing countries, consumers can afford more meat products, which boosts demand across various segments of the meat market.
• Changing dietary preferences: In many regions, particularly in Western countries, there is a trend toward higher consumption of meat products as part of diverse diets, including premium and processed meats.
• Urbanization: Rapid urbanization drives demand for convenient, ready-to-eat meat products and increases access to modern retail outlets that offer a variety of meat products.
• Innovation and product development: Advances in meat processing technologies and innovations in product offerings, such as value-added and convenience products, contribute to market growth by catering to evolving consumer preferences.
Challenges in the meat market include:
• Health concerns: Increasing awareness of health issues related to high meat consumption, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer risks, drives some consumers to reduce their meat intake or shift toward alternative protein sources.
• Environmental impact: The meat industry faces scrutiny over its environmental impact, including greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and land degradation, leading to pressure for more sustainable production practices and alternative proteins.
• Animal welfare issues: Concerns about animal welfare and ethical considerations regarding factory farming practices drive demand for more humane and sustainable meat production methods, which can be costly and complex to implement.
• Supply chain disruptions: The meat industry is vulnerable to supply chain disruptions due to factors such as disease outbreaks (e.g., African swine fever, avian flu), trade restrictions, and transportation issues, which can affect production and prices.
The meat market faces a complex landscape of drivers and challenges. To ensure continued growth, the industry must navigate the demands of health-conscious consumers, the pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, and the need for sustainable production methods. The ability to address these challenges will determine the future trajectory of the meat market.
Meat Suppliers and Their Market Shares
In this globally competitive market, several key players such as WH Group, Hormel Foods, Itoham Foods Inc., JBS, BRF S.A, etc. dominate the market and contribute to industry’s growth and innovation. These players capture maximum market share. To know the current market share of each of major players contact us.
Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. With these strategies meat companies cater increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the meat companies profiled in this report include-
• WH Group
• Hormel Foods
• Itoham Foods Inc.
• JBS
• BRF S.A
• Tyson Foods
• Cargill Inc
• Faragalla Group
• Clemens Food Group
• Maple Leaf Foods
These companies have established themselves as leaders in the meat industry, with extensive pr
Meat Market by Segment
The meat market is mainly divided into fresh and processed meat segments. Fresh meat includes raw products like beef, pork, and chicken, sold as whole cuts or ground. Processed meat encompasses items that are altered through curing, smoking, or adding pre
Meat Market by Livestock [Value from 2018 to 2030]:
• Poultry
• Pork
• Beef
• Sheep
Meat Market by Meat Type [Value from 2018 to 2030]:
• Fresh Meat
• Processed Meat
Meat Market by Region [Value from 2018 to 2030]:
• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• The Rest of the World
Country Wise Outlook for the Meat Market
The global meat market is undergoing significant transformations, driven by changing consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and technological innovations. Increasing demand for plant-based alternatives, along with growing awareness of health and environmental impacts, is reshaping the traditional meat industry. As countries across the world adapt to these shifts, notable developments in meat production, processing, and consumption have been observed in the United States, China, Germany, India, and Japan.
• United States: In the U.S., the meat market is witnessing a surge in demand for plant-based meat alternatives, with companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods leading the charge. Consumer interest in healthier, sustainable options is pushing traditional meat producers to innovate, offering more organic and antibiotic-free products. The beef and poultry sectors are also seeing growth, with technological advancements in precision livestock farming and lab-grown meats gaining attention as future solutions.
• China: China remains one of the largest meat consumers globally, with pork being the dominant product. However, recent developments show a shift toward more diversified consumption, including growing interest in beef and chicken. The African swine fever outbreak has severely impacted pork production, leading to increased imports and the development of alternative protein sources. China is also exploring lab-grown meat, with several companies conducting trials to meet future food security needs.
• Germany: In Germany, there is rising demand for high-quality, ethically sourced meat, with consumers prioritizing organic and free-range products. The plant-based meat sector is expanding rapidly, as more German consumers turn to meat substitutes in response to environmental concerns. Additionally, Germany is focused on improving meat processing efficiency and animal welfare standards, with regulations promoting better conditions for livestock. The trend toward sustainable production practices is influencing both domestic consumption and exports.
• Indian: India’s meat market is largely driven by poultry, particularly chicken, which has seen significant growth due to rising incomes and urbanization. However, beef consumption remains limited due to religious and cultural factors. The market is also witnessing increased focus on halal meat products, catering to specific consumer groups. Additionally, India is gradually embracing plant-based meat alternatives, with several startups entering the market to meet the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan options.
• Japan: In Japan, the meat market is experiencing growth in both traditional consumption and alternative proteins. Beef remains highly popular, with Japanese wagyu beef maintaining a premium position globally. However, plant-based meats are gaining momentum, especially among younger consumers, driven by health and environmental concerns. Japan is also investing in lab-grown meat technologies, with several companies conducting trials to bring cultured meat products to market, aiming to meet future demand while ensuring sustainability.
Features of the Global Meat Market
Market Size Estimates: Meat market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends (2018 to 2023) and forecast (2024 to 2030) by various segments and regions.
Segmentation Analysis: Meat market size by livestock , meat type, and region in terms of value ($B).
Regional Analysis: Meat market breakdown by North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different livestock , meat type, and regions for the meat market.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the meat market.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.
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FAQ
Q1. What is the meat market size?
Answer: The global meat market is expected to reach an estimated $1251 billion by 2030.
Q2. What is the growth forecast for meat market?
Answer: The global meat market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 2% from 2024 to 2030.
Q3. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the meat market?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are increasing poultry meat consumption, demand for protein based food products, and increasing demand for processed meat.
Q4. What are the major segments for meat market?
Answer: The future of the meat market looks promising with opportunities in the poultry, pork, beef, and sheep markets.
Q5. Who are the key meat market companies?
Answer: Some of the key meat companies are as follows:
• WH Group
• Hormel Foods
• Itoham Foods Inc.
• JBS
• BRF S.A
• Tyson Foods
• Cargill Inc
• Faragalla Group
• Clemens Food Group
• Maple Leaf Foods
Q6. Which meat market segment will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that processed meat is expected to witness higher growth over the forecast period.
Q7. In meat market, which region is expected to be the largest in next 7 years?
Answer: APAC will remain the largest region over the forecast period.
Q8. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.
This report answers following 11 key questions:
Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the meat market by livestock (poultry, pork, beef , and sheep), meat type (fresh meat and processed meat), and region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. Which region will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.4. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.5. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.6. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.7. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.8. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.9. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.10. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.11. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 7 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
For any questions related to Meat Market, Meat Market Size, Meat Market Growth, Meat Market Analysis, Meat Market Report, Meat Market Share, Meat Market Trends, Meat Market Forecast, Meat Market Companies, write Lucintel analyst at email: helpdesk@lucintel.com. We will be glad to get back to you soon.