LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — U.S. meat sales reached a record $112 billion in 2025 as strong consumer demand, younger shoppers, and shifting meal trends supported continued growth across protein markets.
The annual Power of Meat report from the Meat Institute and FMI—The Food Industry Association shows volume rose 2 percent year over year, with Millennials and Gen Z accounting for 67 percent of unit growth. More than 98 percent of U.S. households purchased meat, and nearly half of shoppers said they are preparing more meals with meat or poultry.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong consumer demand supports livestock market outlook.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Consumer habits continue to favor animal protein. Shoppers prepare about 5 dinners at home on average each week, with roughly 90 percent of them including meat or poultry. Younger consumers are also shaping demand trends through social media and artificial intelligence tools for meal planning, reinforcing retail focus on both convenience and premium offerings.
Health perceptions remain supportive, with 77 percent of shoppers viewing meat and poultry as part of a healthy diet — up sharply since 2020. Analysts note that protein demand, affordability, and flexibility continue to drive retail performance across fresh meat categories.
READ MORE: The Power of Meat 2025 Report
National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
January 16, 2026 01:13 PM
·
Soft equipment sales signal cautious farm spending as producers prioritize cash flow over expansion.
January 16, 2026 07:00 AM
·
Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features swine competition with top exhibitors, including Grand Champion Brinley Wilson, ahead of Saturday’s premium sale.
January 15, 2026 04:07 PM
·
Rep. Erin Houchin of Indiana discusses how the Affordable Homes Act will benefit rural communities, and her broader efforts to improve access to affordable housing.
January 15, 2026 03:04 PM
·
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
January 15, 2026 01:36 PM
·
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
January 15, 2026 12:30 PM
·
