NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — China’s shift toward animal protein consumption continues reshaping global feed and meat markets, with rising purchases of meat, eggs, and dairy closely matching declines in cereal grain consumption.
Retired USDA Economist Dr. Fred Gale reports Chinese household survey data show per capita cereal grain purchases fell from 138.9 kilograms in 2013 to 110.6 kilograms in 2024, while purchases of meat, fish, eggs, and dairy rose from 59.8 kilograms to 88.1 kilograms over the same period. The near one-to-one shift reflects broader dietary change as incomes rise and food preferences evolve.
Pork remains dominant in China’s protein mix despite growth in beef and mutton demand and steady egg consumption. Poultry and fish purchases have plateaued in recent years, while urban dairy consumption has declined since 2021, even as rural dairy consumption rises. Rural households have largely closed the gap with urban consumers in pork, poultry, and egg consumption.
Survey data show the shift accelerating in recent years, including a sharp drop in cereal purchases in 2024, while vegetable and fruit consumption also increased alongside protein demand.
E15 policy could shape future corn demand outlook.
March 19, 2026 04:06 PM
·
Agricultural groups warn that the deal could limit competition and raise transportation costs for farmers
March 19, 2026 03:57 PM
·
The Trump Administration’s new rule limiting CDL renewals for immigrant truckers is seeing mixed reactions in agriculture. While some support the change, it is raising concerns about higher freight costs and impacts on U.S. grain export competitiveness.
March 19, 2026 02:35 PM
·
As a part of the International Year of the Woman Farmer, women across the state are being recognized for shaping the future of agricutlure.
March 19, 2026 02:01 PM
·
As the strike at a JBS facility in Colorado continues, the National Right to Work Foundation is encouraging some employees to consider returning to work. The group says not all workers on strike may want to participate and urges those who choose to cross the picket line to resign from their union memberships.
March 19, 2026 01:49 PM
·
At the Port of Brownsville, shrimpers are facing rising operating costs and increased competition, but many shrimp producers and local lawmakers remain optimistic about the industry’s future.
March 19, 2026 01:22 PM
·
