OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma (RFD NEWS) — Americans are continuing to consume meat at record levels as demand remains strong across multiple proteins heading into summer cookout season.
New USDA forecasts show beef, pork and chicken consumption is all expected to rise this year as consumers continue stocking up on protein for daily meals.
According to new numbers from the Meat Institute, meat sales reached a record $112 billion last year.
Researchers say more than 98 percent of U.S. households purchased meat products during that time.
Beef, pork and chicken all remained popular choices among consumers, while chicken continued standing out as the most affordable and widely available protein option.
Analysts say summertime grilling demand is expected to provide another boost to meat consumption in the months ahead.
Leaders in the protein sector are wrapping up the USMEF Spring Conference after several days of discussions centered around beef production, exports and expanding international markets.
Chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation Jay Theiler joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss some of the major topics highlighted during the event.
In his conversation with RFD News, Theiler discussed renewed Chinese registrations for U.S. beef plants and what the development could mean for producers and export opportunities moving forward.
The discussion also focused on broader volatility facing the red meat industry, including trade uncertainty and other challenges currently impacting the sector.
As the conference wrapped up in Oklahoma, Theiler also reflected on some of the biggest highlights and takeaways from this year’s event.
