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The Surge in Meat Sales: What It Means for American Diets

In a striking development, meat sales in the United States soared to an all-time high of $112 billion in 2025, marking a 2% increase in volume. This growth, reported in the latest Power of Meat analysis presented at the Annual Meat Conference, indicates a significant shift in consumer behavior, especially driven by younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z.

The Influence of Millennials and Gen Z

Over 98% of American households purchase meat, and a considerable 45% of shoppers are now focused on preparing more meals featuring meat or poultry. Millennials and Gen Z specifically accounted for 67% of the growth in unit sales, highlighting their crucial role in this trend. Interestingly, 81% of families with children reported that kids have a say in the meat purchasing decisions, with 72% of teens requesting meat and poultry over other forms of protein like bars and shakes. This growing preference illustrates that younger consumers prioritize traditional sources of protein in their diets.

Social Media and AI in Meal Planning

Today's shoppers, particularly those in the younger demographic, are leveraging social media and artificial intelligence for meal inspirations. Approximately 24% of Gen Z and Millennial shoppers utilize AI tools for meal planning, compared to just 10% of Gen X and 4% of Boomers. This reflects a massive 650% increase in the use of AI tools amongst shoppers over the past two years, showcasing a modern approach to cooking and dietary choices.

Positive Health Perceptions of Meat

The perception of meat and poultry in terms of health and nutrition is surprisingly robust. 77% of consumers believe that these products contribute positively to a healthy diet, a notable rise of over 20% since 2020. Notably, individuals using GLP-1 medication also show a marked preference for meat, indicating a trend whereby meat consumption aligns with health management strategies.

Retail Strategies for Success

Industry leaders emphasize that the meat department’s success stems from its ability to meet consumer desires for protein, versatility, value, and flavor. According to Rick Stein, Vice President of Fresh Foods for FMI, “Retailers who balance convenient ground options with premium cuts are likely to capture both budget-conscious and experience-driven consumers.” This strategy emphasizes the importance of offering a range of products to cater to diverse shopping preferences.

A Forward-looking Perspective on Meat Consumption

Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute, remarked on the evolving landscape of food choices in America, reinforcing that “this latest report underscores meat's irreplaceable role at the heart of healthy and affordable meals.” As food choices become increasingly significant, the meat industry aims to ensure that it remains a pivotal element of healthy diets for future generations.

Conclusion: The Continuing Importance of Meat

The findings of the Power of Meat study, backed by the collaboration of the Meat Institute and FMI, highlight an ongoing trend in meat consumption that is adaptive to current consumer demands. As long as the industry continues to innovate and respond to the needs of its consumers, it will remain an essential component of the American diet. For those interested in the detailed findings, a complimentary copy of the full Power of Meat 2026 report is available through the Meat Institute and FMI.

This report signals exciting prospects for the meat industry, particularly as younger generations increasingly view meat as integral to their dietary habits. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, one thing is certain: meat will remain central to American meals for years to come.