Per capita poultry consumption

In 2025, per capita poultry consumption is estimated to reach 116.1 pounds, representing a 0.4% year-over-year growth rate. Consumer preference for poultry remains high and has been increasing because of its lower fat content in comparison to red meat and its appeal as a cost-effective protein source. Due to its lower price point relative to other meats, consumers tend to rely more heavily on poultry when their budgets tighten, meaning persisting inflationary pressures have not deterred growth in poultry consumption.

During the 2020 to 2025 period, poultry consumption growth experienced periods of stagnation and uptick. During 2020, the pandemic led to increased demand for essential grocery items, including poultry, as more meals were prepared at home, resulting in a 0.9% increase in poultry consumption pounds per capita, largely as a result of demand recovery for other livestock products. The positive momentum was offset in 2021 by higher chicken prices, as producers contended with sustained costs for inputs, and the gradual recovery of food service segments increased the availability of alternatives to home-made meals. In 2022, per capita poultry consumption rebounded by 2.1% to 114.3 pounds as reductions in retail prices made poultry an attractive option for consumers facing inflationary pressures. Over 2023 and 2024, poultry consumption continued along an upward trajectory, buoyed by the return of restaurant demand and overall improvements to supply chains; however, gains were tempered by ongoing food inflation and competitive pressures from other meat products.

Macroeconomic factors such as inflation, changes in disposable income, and improvements in production efficiency for poultry have significantly influenced per capita consumption patterns. Broader trends, including consumer perceptions of healthfulness and the convenience of poultry, have also supported its demand. Furthermore, poultry's price advantage compared with other meats and its versatility in a range of cuisine types helped it maintain its position as a staple protein source throughout this period.

Over the five years to 2025, per capita poultry consumption grew at an average annual rate of 0.7%. Growth was primarily driven by persistent consumer preference for poultry, the restoration of production and supply following pandemic-related disruptions, and poultry's competitive pricing versus alternative proteins. These factors were partially offset by inflation and increased competition from plant-based and other animal proteins, which limited more robust gains in the period.