Chomps, the leading meat stick company in the U.S., is experiencing a unique challenge. While they produce 2 million meat sticks daily, demand is so high they can only fill 85% of orders. This surge in popularity means they’re turning down new retailers and shelving plans for expansion or new products to keep current customers satisfied.
Not too long ago, the idea of meat sticks becoming a hot snack choice seemed unlikely. Once viewed as unhealthy, these snacks are now seen as convenient, high-protein options. In fact, sales of dried meat snacks (excluding jerky) skyrocketed 10.7% to $3.3 billion in 2024, according to Circana. Since 2020, this market has added $1.2 billion in sales.
Chomps alone expects to hit nearly $1 billion in sales, up from just $50 million in 2019. They plan to increase their distribution points and are building a new factory in Missouri to ramp up production. They are not alone in this success; other meat stick brands are on the rise too. For instance, Jack Link’s opened a new $450 million processing plant in Georgia, creating 800 jobs, while Archer plans to expand in Los Angeles after a massive 90% sales jump last year.
Matt Landen, a Chomps executive, noted that it was tough for meat sticks to shake off a bad reputation. Yet, consumer interest in protein and convenience has fueled growth. Each Chomps stick has 10 to 12 grams of protein—comparable to two eggs—making it appealing to many, especially those on GLP-1 medications that promote weight loss.
Consumers now see these snacks in new ways. They come in varying lengths and flavors, including Jalapeno and Dill Pickle, and can be grass-fed or organic. This variety has helped win over those who were once hesitant to try meat sticks.
Claire Flannery from Greenridge Naturals remarked that innovation is essential. Conagra Brands, which owns Slim Jim and Duke’s, markets each brand to highlight different consumer priorities, such as health or flavor. Slim Jim, for example, is embracing innovation with new product lines.
With roughly 85 million people avoiding certain foods due to allergies, there’s a market gap. Jack Link’s rebranded its LK line to highlight its allergen-free snacks. This move fills a crucial need in a growing segment of consumers.
The meat stick category shows great promise, as it taps into trends like snacking and protein-rich food. Companies like Chomps see their rivals not as other meat stick brands but as competitors in the overall snack market. Interestingly, about two-thirds of Chomps’ customers are trying meat sticks for the first time, often shifting from chips or bars.
“We want to dominate in protein snacks,” said CEO Rashid Ali, noting the $26 billion market potential. This momentum has attracted fresh entrants trying to capitalize on the booming demand for meat snacks.
