Meat is seeing a resurgence just in time for the 4th of July

“We’re actually seeing a decline in the prevelence of vegan, vegetarian diets. We’re seeing more interest in meat protein in general.”

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.

Related Stories
A mid-January winter storm delivered snow, ice, and extreme cold to a broad swath of the U.S., disrupting transportation, stressing livestock systems, and adding cost and complexity to winter farm operations as producers look toward spring.
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Junior Livestock Champions Grand Champion Market Steer, topping out at $320,000
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council published a joint press release regarding the advancement of legislation to delist the Mexican Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species Act.