Americans See Meat as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle

Meat sales hit a record high of $104.6 billion in 2024.  The pounds sold increased by 2.3% compared to 2023, and consumers, on average, purchase meat more than once per week.  That keeps meat the largest fresh department in grocery stores.

According to the 20th annual Power of Meat Report, 98% of American households purchase meat, and 73% of Americans view meat as an overall healthy choice.  Getting enough protein is important to 90% of Americans, and animal proteins, including eggs (83%), chicken (82%), and beef (76%), top the list of foods that most consumers view as protein-rich foods.

“As shoppers’ definition of value has expanded to include price, quality, relevance, convenience, and experience, they’re including meat in 90% of home-cooked dinners and want options that suit their interests,” said Rick Stein, vice president of fresh foods for The Food Industry Association.

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