Record Sales Surge: How Americans Embrace Meat as Essential to a Healthy, Balanced Lifestyle – Insights from Perishable News

Meat sales in the U.S. have reached an all-time high of $104.6 billion in 2024, with a 2.3% increase in pounds sold compared to last year. Consumers are buying meat more than once a week, keeping it as the largest category in grocery stores according to the recent Power of Meat report.

A staggering 98% of American households buy meat. About 73% of the population considers meat a healthy option. An impressive 90% of Americans recognize the importance of protein in their diet, with animal-based proteins like eggs (83%), chicken (82%), and beef (76%) being top choices.

Shoppers are now looking for comfort, convenience, and creativity in meal preparation. On average, Americans purchase meat 54 times a year, spending around $16.12 each trip.

Rick Stein, Vice President of Fresh Foods for FMI, shared insights into changing consumer values. He noted that shoppers now seek value not just in price, but also in quality and convenience. “Whether it’s new ground meats or semi-prepared options, the meat section is adapting to what people want,” he said.

Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute, emphasized the trust Americans have in meat as a source of nutrition. She pointed out that 74% of the public is confident in meat’s ability to meet protein needs, contributing to increased sales.

Recent surveys highlight an interesting trend: a growing number of people are exploring plant-based alternatives while still purchasing meat. This shows a shift in dietary habits where many seek to balance both options.

To get more insights, the Power of Meat study was conducted by 210 Analytics, focusing on consumer behavior and market dynamics. The data provided by Circana covers sales for the year ending December 29, 2024.

For more on trends in the meat industry, you can check the full Power of Meat 2025 report here.

With ongoing changes in consumer preferences and a strong focus on health, the meat market appears ready to evolve, reflecting the needs of modern shoppers while continuing to play a significant role in American diets.

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