Meat is having a moment and it is evident in the latest data from Kansas State University’s Meat Demand Monitor.
A K-State Ag Economist says that the resurgence has been driven by a shift in consumer habits and dietary interest.
According to Dr. Glynn Tonsor, “Meat is having a moment in the sense that we’re actually seeing a decline in the prevalence of vegan/vegetarian diets. We’re seeing more interest in meat protein in general. Just interest in having meat protein in our diet is growing here in 2025. Some of that has to do with a more active younger cohort, you know, physical fitness ‘demands’ more protein and meat and is benefitting from that. Those of us that watch probably too much TV see portein referenced in commercials more than we did a few years ago. So there’s a broder protein discussion going on here.”
While meat popularity is part of a larger trend this year, it is also taking center stage this holiday weekend on grills.
A USDA Livestock Analyst says that protein sales and deals are out there.
U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
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