Ground Meat Market Size, Share, Growth, and Market Analysis, By Type (Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Ground Chicken) By Application (Home, Commercial) and Regional Forecast to 2033

GROUND MEAT MARKET OVERVIEW

The global ground meat market size expanded rapidly in 2022 and is projected to grow substantially by 2028, exhibiting a prodigious CAGR during the forecast period.

The ground meat market has grown due to the rising popularity of proteins that are both convenient, versatile and affordable. Very often, burgers, sausages, meatballs, tacos and pasta sauces use ground meats which can come from beef, pork, chicken or turkey. The market involves both retail and foodservice divisions, offering products to people in their homes and to companies with commercial kitchens. Due to more people living in cities, leading busy lives and wanting easy meals, the market has grown. Furthermore, new packaging, advanced food processing and offering products that are flavored or pre-seasoned attract more buyers. The interest in healthier and natural foods is encouraging more producers to i offer different kinds of meat. Moreover, an increase in both online grocery shopping and meal kit services is driving demand for ground meat. However, there are challenges on the market such as the unstable prices of food raw materials, issues over food safety and more people choosing plant-based diet. Still, emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are attractive for investors, as more people are changing what they eat and eating more meat. Because of improving technology in the food supply chain and cold storage, the market for ground meat worldwide is likely to grow steadily.

GLOBAL CRISES IMPACTING GROUND MEAT MARKET

COVID-19 IMPACT

Ground Meat Market Had a Negative Effect Due to Supply Chain Disruption During COVID-19 Pandemic

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to the market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak seriously affected the ground meat market share. The closure of many businesses and stricter rules for keeping apart people caused many holidays goods to run low. Lack of workers and health concerns among staff led to shortages of meatpackers which greatly cut the facilities’ production. There were not enough ground meat products in shops due to the bottleneck and the prices kept fluctuating. Meanwhile, since people could not dine out at restaurants and such, eating less impacted the entire food consumption sector. In the beginning of the pandemic, people bought more which led to increased demand for a short time, but afterwards, the demand in many developing markets fell until people could afford to purchase more goods again. In addition, limits placed on global trade and borders interrupted meat exports and imports, further unbalancing the market. Despite progress in retail and online sales, COVID-19 has left its mark on business operations, logistics and how customers behave. This experience made it clear that new systems, digitalization and stronger security regulations should be introduced to processing plants to protect the industry from future risks.

LATEST TREND

Surge in Demand for Premium and Organic Ground Meat Products Drive Market Growth

What’s changing lately in the ground meat market is that people prefer buying premium and organic options over others. Now that many people are more aware of health, protecting the environment and clear nutrition, restaurants are moving to high-quality meat that is farm-raised, hormone-free, antibiotic-free and ethically produced. Urban, healthy and younger consumers often choose to buy premium products that reflect their beliefs. You will find more retailers and food producers offering grass-fed, organic and free-range ground meats and they are likely to have certifications and eco-friendly packaging. In addition, both premium meats and processed ground meats are appearing in restaurants as well as grocery stores. Recent studies suggest that sales of organic ground beef have gone up each year, mainly in North America and areas in Europe. Because of this trend, meat producers are now investing in clearer supply chains and farming that is environmentally friendly to respond to customers and compete with others in the industry.

GROUND MEAT MARKET SEGMENTATION

BY TYPE

Based on types, the global market can be categorized into Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Ground Chicken

• Ground Beef: Thanks to its rich flavor and protein, beef is often found in burgers, pasta and tacos.

• Ground Pork: Fat and flavorful, pork is generally added to dumplings, sausages and meatballs.

• Ground Chicken: Lean meat often goes into meals that are good for you and is also found in the fillings of burgers, stir-fries and more.

 BY APPLICATIONS

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into Home, Commercial

• Home Use: For those who are in a hurry, ground meat provides an easy-to-make meal with many health benefits.
• Commercial Use: Found in restaurants, fast food places and kitchens in institutions where it is easy to prepare for large amounts.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions. 

DRIVING FACTORS

Growing Demand for Convenience Foods Boost the Market

As life gets busier and people leave rural areas, as well as changes in what people eat, there has been a rise in demand for ground meat market growth that is already cut and prepared. Since ground meat is quick and easy to work with, it is great for quick meals. With ground meat, you have the choice of dishes ranging from meatballs to patties, sauces and stir-fries. More meal kits and frozen meals with ground meat encourage the use of this type of meat. Also, ground meat products are helping food businesses provide unique and affordable food items to their customers. In metro areas, people who work full-time often select fast foods that are both tasteful and healthy.

Rise in Meat Consumption in Developing Economies Expand the Market

Levels of meat consumption in India, China and Southeast Asia have gone up due to people’s higher incomes, city life and wider range of foods they can try. The rising usage of ground meat in these places is likely due to its low cost and various ways it can be used. People can find it in traditional cuisine and fast food, contributing to its popularity. In addition, governments in these areas are helping the livestock industry to ensure there is enough ground meat for local use. The increase in the number of middle-class people, especially youngsters, leads to a rise in people eating more protein. The growth in this market is strongly influenced by changes in society and the economy.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Alternatives Potentially Impede Market Growth

The rise in popularity of fake meat alternatives is limiting the growth of the ground meat market. People concerned with their health, animals and the environment are choosing more plant-based products that have the feel and taste of ground meat. Large food providers and retailers are adding plant-based ground “meat” products which is resulting in tougher competition. The change is especially noticeable among members of Gen Z and millennials. Improvements in the taste and quality of alternatives could pose a risk to traditional ground meat, so companies may need to do so as well.

OPPORTUNITY

Innovation in Value-Added Products Create Opportunity for The Product in The Market

A chance to excel in the ground meat market comes from creating seasoned, marinated or blended meat items. Many people now look for foods that are both easy to use and healthful. So, combining ground meat with vegetables or grains draws in flexitarians who want to eat healthy and still eat meat. Additionally, putting in ingredients like probiotics or increased vitamins may help attract the wellness crowd. Because of these innovations, companies can set themselves apart from competitors and receive a larger profit margin.

CHALLENGE

Ensuring Supply Chain Resilience Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Ensuring the reliability and transparency of its supply chain is the biggest ongoing obstacle for the ground meat industry. Problems in meat processing and logistics were brought to light by the COVID-19 pandemic. Reduced staff, upsets in the cold supply network and disease outbreaks may slow or disrupt the food supply. Furthermore, the industry is being driven to use technology for traceability and to uphold strict food safety guidelines. It is still difficult to ensure efficiency, visibility and sustainability in the supply chain without increasing expenses.

GROUND MEAT MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• NORTH AMERICA

The key reason for North America’s success especially United States ground meat high meat consumption, solid processing base and important ground meat producers. People in the U.S. eat a lot of ground beef, especially when cooking burgers. Additionally, more people in this region are asking for premium, organic and grass-fed ground meats. E-commerce websites and meal kit brands have widened the choices for buying ground meats. Many innovative efforts are happening in this region, as businesses focus on sustainability, green packaging and food ingredients with simple labels. Thanks to inspections and proper labeling by the USDA, consumers have a good reason to trust the products they purchase.

• EUROPE

Most people in Europe prefer ground meat that is organic, comes from local farms and is produced in a sustainable manner. Many consumers in Germany, the UK and France are turning to ground pork and beef in their traditional meals and in ready meals. Food safety and animal rights policies ensure that the supply chain is easy to trace and transparent. Consumers are also favoring plant-based alternatives to ground meat, leading traditional companies to try something new. Increasing numbers of flexitarian and eco-minded people are leading companies to develop more low-fat and environmentally friendly products.

• ASIA

Ground meat is becoming more popular in Asia due to the fast growth of cities, higher incomes and people adopting western habits in meals. Ground beef, pork and chicken are all seeing rising popularity in processed and fast food among citizens of China, India and Japan. Although the average amount of meat consumed is lower in Asia than in Western countries, it keeps increasing. Currently, local producers are increasing what they do to meet the needs of people and global companies are also entering by teaming up with those already here. In addition, using ground meat in various regional dishes is giving manufacturers additional chances.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS

Key Market Players Shaping the Market Through Innovation and Market Expansion

A number of leading companies in the global ground meat market compete with each other through product expansions, broader coverage and strong planning. The main companies in the meat industry are JBS S.A., Tyson Foods Inc., Cargill Incorporated, WH Group (Smithfield Foods), Hormel Foods Corporation and National Beef Packing Company. Their main priorities are managing efficiency, ensuring quality goods and supporting activities for sustainability. Tyson Foods invests in making its beef more sustainable and introducing value-added products, while Cargill puts more effort into transparent supply chains and selling meat without antibiotics. Through the purchase of more companies and by creating a variety of products, JBS is steadily increasing its global footprint. Organic and premium ground meats have been developed by both Hormel Foods and Smithfield for those who care about their health. Danish Crown, Minerva Foods and NH Foods play a big role in driving the market’s development in Europe and Asia-Pacific. The influence of both private and local brands is rising, especially in Asia and this is affecting the competition in the region.

List Of Top Ground Meat Market Companies     

• American Foods Group LLC (U.S.)
• Greater Omaha Packing (U.S.)
• JBS USA Holdings Inc (U.S.)
• Hormel Foods Corp (U.S.)

KEY MARKET DEVELOPMENT

April 2024: Tyson Foods announced the launch of a new line of seasoned ground beef and chicken products targeting health-conscious consumers in North America. The product range includes options with reduced sodium, clean labels, and eco-friendly packaging. This move aligns with the growing demand for value-added and premium meat products.

REPORT COVERAGE       

The global food industry relies on the ground meat market due to its convenience, the rise in meat consumption and multiple food uses. Ground meat is a favorite among both shoppers and commercial chefs since it’s simple to use and nutritious. Despite the problems of facing more competition, worry over helping the environment and trouble within supply chains, this market has maintained its resistance and adaptability. Creating organic, seasoned and healthy ground meats is providing companies with new ways to expand. Countries in North America and Europe are paying attention to developments in premium foods and sustainability, while Asia can offer much because people there are changing their eating habits and moving to cities. Key organizations are expanding their reach, inventing new items and improving their supply chain to keep up with rivals. It is noticeable that consumers now prefer organic and transparent labels, resulting in businesses focusing on the same. Digital commerce offers plenty of opportunities, mainly through e-grocery services and meal kits which are modernizing the way ground meat is bought and sold. All in all, the market for ground meat will continue to increase, mostly due to fresh ideas, more demand from new areas and constant attention to quality, safety and sustainability.