MANHATTAN, Kan. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. consumers are buying and valuing meat differently than they did just a few years ago, with stronger retail demand and fewer people avoiding meat altogether, according to the Meat Demand Monitor led by Dr. Glynn Tonsor at Kansas State University.
Survey data covering 2020 through 2025 show the share of Americans identifying as meat consumers rose from just over 83 percent to more than 85 percent, while vegan and vegetarian claims declined, and many self-identified non-meat eaters still reported eating meat the previous day. Beef and pork consumption frequency remained relatively steady nationwide, though the Northeast consistently trailed other regions.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Domestic beef demand remains solid, with the strongest growth occurring through retail channels.
Tony St. James
Retail purchasing strengthened the most. Consumers’ willingness to pay for ground beef increased from about $7.26 per pound in 2020 to $9.18 in 2025, rising faster than general inflation. Grocery stores remained the dominant source for at-home meals, while quick-service and casual restaurants led away-from-home dining, but restaurant demand lagged retail growth.
Taste and freshness remained the top buying factors, with nutrition and health gaining importance, while environmental impact and animal-welfare claims declined in influence.
FarmHER Christina Woerner McInnis is revolutionizing soil health in Alabama with SoilKit, a cutting-edge tool.
September 26, 2025 11:55 AM
·
Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
September 26, 2025 11:28 AM
·
Rising cow numbers and higher yields are boosting milk supplies, which may keep pressure on prices and farm margins into the fall.
September 25, 2025 01:01 PM
·
On this week’s episode of
FarmHER + RanchHER, host Kirbe Schnoor travels to Wilson’s ranch to see how she blends tradition and technology to raise elite Red Angus cattle.
September 24, 2025 04:02 PM
·
Fewer placements and historically low marketings point to tighter cattle supplies ahead, with Nebraska and Kansas gaining ground as Texas feedlots face supply pressure and the threat of New World Screwworm.
September 24, 2025 03:40 PM
·
Industry-wide participation in SHIP enhances biosecurity and fosters global trust in U.S. pork, says swine health expert, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham.
September 24, 2025 03:32 PM
·
