Per capita meat consumption in the U.S. is on the rise, increasing by 10% since 2010, according to data from the United Nations and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 2025, the average American is expected to consume 227 pounds of meat, including poultry, pork, and red meats-up from historical lows in the early 2000s and reflecting a resurgence tied to economic recovery and consumer demand.

In contrast, European meat consumption has fallen nearly 19% over the same period, dropping to an estimated 152 pounds per capita in 2025. This decline, driven by higher meat prices, growing environmental concerns, and a surge in plant-based diets, is expected to continue for at least another decade, per a European Commission report.

This divergence between U.S. and European consumption patterns underscores shifting global attitudes toward meat and its role in diet, culture, and sustainability. In the U.S., meat remains central to dietary habits and food service industries, while Europe is steadily moving toward alternative proteins and lower-emission food systems.

Meanwhile, Asia's meat consumption has doubled since 1990, reaching 98 pounds per person this year, narrowing a historical gap with Western countries. In 1960, Americans consumed nearly 13 times more meat per capita than Asians. That disparity has shrunk significantly, fueled by economic growth, urbanization, and Western dietary influences.

Countries like Vietnam, India, and Turkey have posted the largest gains over the past 15 years, with Vietnam now consuming 145 pounds of meat per capita annually. Vietnam has rapidly grown into a major meat producer, though it continues to rely heavily on imports of poultry, pork, buffalo, and cattle to meet domestic demand.

China, the world's second-largest beef consumer, is also forecast to increase its per capita meat intake through 2032, supported by its expanding middle class and demand for diverse animal proteins.

These global shifts in consumption have important implications for the U.S. ag sector. With domestic demand holding strong and international markets-especially in Asia-continuing to grow, U.S. livestock producers and exporters may see new opportunities to expand their reach. However, they must also navigate consumer-driven changes, including rising interest in sustainable agriculture, animal welfare, and emissions-linked policies.

Meat remains a central player in the global food system, but it also faces scrutiny. A 2021 study found that over half of food-related greenhouse gas emissions come from the meat industry, adding pressure to balance production growth with environmental stewardship.

Looking ahead, industry leaders and policymakers will need to address complex questions: How can the U.S. maintain leadership in global protein trade while responding to sustainability pressures? What role will precision agriculture and supply chain innovations play in improving efficiency? And how might evolving dietary preferences in the U.S. and abroad reshape demand for livestock products?