Packaged Red Meat Market Size to Grow USD 663.23 Billion in 2025

Packaged Red Meat Market Size, Growth, and Trends 2025 to 2034

The global packaged red meat market size is forecasted to expand from USD 663.23 billion in 2025 to USD 1,046.67 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. This market is projected to witness consistent growth over the coming years, driven by rising demand for convenient, protein-dense food products and expanding consumption of ready-to-cook meat across urban households.

Last Updated: 19 November 2025 Category: Meat Products and Seafood Industry Insight Code: 5924 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

Packaged Red Meat Market Size Insights and Opportunities

The global packaged red meat market size estimated at USD 630.45 billion in 2024 and is predicted to increase from USD 663.23 billion in 2025 to nearly reaching USD 1,046.67 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. The market is driven by rising consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-cook options, coupled with growing health-consciousness and premium product offerings.

Packaged Red Meat Market Size 2025 to 2034

Key Highlights

  • By region, North America dominated the global packaged red meat market in 2024.
  • By region, Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period.
  • By product type, the frozen red meat segment held a major market share of about 43% in 2024.
  • By product type, the processed / cured / deli (sausages, cold cuts, hams) segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By packaging format, the modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) / vacuum packaging segment held a major market share in 2024.
  • By packaging format, the ready-meal trays & multi-pack formats segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By end use / channel, the retail / supermarkets & hypermarkets segment held the largest share of the market in 2024.
  • By end use /channel, the foodservice segment is projected to grow at the fastest rate between 2025 and 2034.
  • By animal, the pork segment held a major market share in 2024.
  • By animal, the beef segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR between 2025 and 2034.

Industry Coverage

Study Coverage Details
Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 CAGR of 5.2%
Market Size in 2025 USD 663.23 Billion
Market Size in 2026 USD 697.72 Billion
Market Size by 2034 USD 1,046.67 Billion
Largest Market North America
Base Year 2024
Forecast Period 2025 to 2034
Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa

What is the Packaged Red Meat Market?

Packaged red meat includes beef, pork, lamb, and other red meat cuts that are processed and sold in various packaging formats such as fresh or chilled trays, vacuum packs, modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP), frozen blocks or portions, cured, sliced, or processed products, and ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook items. It encompasses private-label and branded retail products, food-service supplies, and chilled or frozen packaged ranges sold through supermarkets, convenience stores, and food service channels. Major factors driving value are convenience, extended shelf life through packaging technologies, traceability and food safety controls, and shifting consumer eating habits like increased protein demand and the preference for on-the-go meals.

The packaged read meat market is driven by factors such as advances in cold chain logistics and packaging, rising disposable incomes, growing consumer preference for protein-rich diets, higher demand for convenience foods, innovations in packaging technology, the need for longer shelf life with frozen red meat, changing dietary habits in emerging countries, urbanization, and the expansion of quick-service restaurants and e-commerce. 

Packaged Red Meat Market Outlook

  • Industry Growth Overview: Between 2025 and 2034, the packaged red meat industry is expected to experience rapid growth due to the increasing demand for ready-to-eat foods and on-the-go snacks and the expansion of the food and beverages industry, especially in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America. Advancements in food processing and packaging technologies and increasing consumer preference toward clean-label, premium, and artisanal products also drive market growth. 
  • Increasing Consumer Preference Toward Sustainability: Increasing consumer preference for sustainability is driving demand for packaged red meat products that are sourced responsibly, with a focus on ethical farming, animal welfare, and environmentally-friendly production practices. As consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact, they are seeking meat products that align with sustainable practices, such as reduced carbon footprints, eco-friendly packaging, and transparent supply chains. This shift is pushing manufacturers to innovate and adapt their offerings to meet the growing demand for sustainably sourced and packaged red meat.
  • Global Expansion: The market is expanding globally due to rising consumer demand for convenience, quality, and longer shelf-life products, especially in developed countries. Emerging regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America present significant opportunities, driven by increasing urbanization, changing dietary preferences, and the growing middle-class population seeking premium and convenient protein options.
  • Major Investors: Major investors in the market include large food conglomerates like Tyson Foods, JBS, and Cargill, which contribute to market growth by investing in advanced packaging technologies, supply chain optimization, and expanding their product portfolios. These companies drive innovation in packaging solutions, enhance product quality, and meet growing consumer demand for sustainable, convenient meat products.

Key Technological Shift in the Packaged Red Meat Market

Advancements in packaging technology are significantly enhancing product quality and shelf life, with innovations such as ultrasonic technology and high-pressure processing. Smart and active packaging with sensors for freshness monitoring, along with the use of recyclable mono-materials and high-barrier films, are becoming key trends. Additionally, Industry 4.0 technologies, including robotics, AI, and automation, are improving traceability, precision, and efficiency across the supply chain, driving market growth in the coming years.

Trade Analysis of Packaged Red Meat Market: Import & Export Statistics

  • India: India exported over 3.92 billion meat products in 2024-25, with buffalo meat (carabeef) making up more than 82% of total meat exports, according to Cybex Exim data.
  • China: China exported 854 beef shipments between Nov 2023 and Oct 2024, with 164 exporters supplying to 158 buyers, according to Volza's Export data.

Value Chain Analysis of the Packaged Red Meat Market

Raw Material Procurement

  • The raw material procurement stage is vital as it ensures a steady and reliable supply of high-quality livestock, including cattle and buffalo, sourced from farms. 
  • Key Players: Cargill, JBS S.A., Tyson Foods

Slaughtering & Processing

  • After procurement, the raw meat goes through slaughtering and processing facilities where it's cleaned, cut, and processed into various cuts of red meat. 
  • Key Players: Smithfield Foods, Marfrig Global Foods, Hormel Foods

Packaging

  • The packaging stage is crucial for extending the shelf life of the red meat products while maintaining their freshness and safety. 
  • Key Players: Sealed Air Corporation, Tetra Pak, Tyson Foods

Distribution & Logistics

  • Efficient distribution and logistics are critical to maintaining the cold chain and ensuring timely delivery of packaged meat products to retailers.
  • Key Players: DHL, XPO Logistics, JBS S.A.

Packaged Red Meat Market Regional Insights

What Made North America the Dominant Region in the Packaged Red Meat Market?

North America dominated the packaged red meat market while holding the largest share in 2024. This is mainly due to increased demand for protein-rich, easy-to-cook food options. Key drivers include the growing preference for convenience foods, changing lifestyles, increased demand for frozen meat, and technological advancements to improve sustainability, food quality, and shelf life. The U.S. and Canada are the primary contributors to this growth, bolstered by their advanced food processing infrastructure and evolving consumer preferences.

U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market Trends

The U.S. dominates the market in North America, driven by growing demand for frozen and convenience foods, clean-label products, and protein-rich options. Factors such as increased consumer focus on health and wellness, the rise of sustainable and plant-based alternatives, a growing need for high-protein diets, and advancements in packaging and processing technologies further fuel the market's growth. Additionally, there is a rising demand for organic, premium, and ready-to-eat food options, which contribute to the market's expansion.

Asia Pacific is Expected to Experience the Fastest Growth in the Packaged Red Meat Market During the Forecast Period

Driven by a growing middle-class population with an increasing appetite for diverse food options, including red meat. Key factors such as government support through trade agreements, advancements in cold chain infrastructure and processing technologies, rising demand for protein-rich and convenient foods, urbanization, and higher disposable incomes contribute to the region's market expansion. China, India, Japan, and South Korea are the leading countries driving this growth.

India Packaged Red Meat Market Trends

In India, the market is growing due to rising awareness about food quality and safety, along with an increasing demand for ready-to-cook and convenient meal options driven by busy lifestyles. Other contributing factors include growing disposable incomes, favorable government initiatives for infrastructure development, a surge in demand for convenience foods, and rapid urbanization, all of which are boosting market growth.

Packaged Red Meat Industry’s Regulatory Landscape in India

Country Regulatory Body Key Regulations
India Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Safety Regulations) and Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses)

Packaged Red Meat Industry’s Regulatory Landscape in India

Europe is expected to witness significant growth in the packaged red meat market during the forecast period, driven by innovations in processing and packaging technologies and the expansion of e-commerce platforms. Consumer preference is shifting towards sustainable, organic, and premium products, alongside a rising demand for ready-to-eat and convenient options, driven by growing health awareness and the need for high-quality protein. Key markets such as the UK, Germany, and France are leading the region's growth.

Germany Packaged Red Meat Market Trends

The packaged red meat industry in Germany is experiencing notable growth, driven by the increasing demand for processed foods and convenience. Key trends include the rising popularity of ready-to-eat options like cold cuts and sausages, innovative packaging solutions that enhance shelf life and convenience, and a growing consumer preference for healthier, premium products.

The packaged red meat market in Latin America is growing due to rising beef production, urbanization, and higher disposable incomes. Key drivers include a growing preference for convenience foods, healthier and more sustainable options, and increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness, with Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina as the major contributors to market growth.

Mexico Packaged Red Meat Market Trends

The packaged red meat market in Mexico is driven by growing demand from the foodservice industry, busy lifestyles favoring pre-packaged products, and rising disposable incomes. Additionally, rapid urbanization, an increasing preference for goat and sheep meat, and higher consumption of chilled processed red meat are contributing to the market's expansion.

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region presents significant opportunities in the packaged red meat market, driven by government and private-sector support, investments in food processing and packaging, and a growing focus on improving cold-chain logistics. Increasing demand for convenience foods and the rising use of fermentation in food production further boost the market, with South Africa, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait driving the growth in the region. South Africa leads the market in the region, fueled by growing demand for traceable, high-quality meat and a shift toward packaged and processed products. The country also benefits from expanding modern retail infrastructure, rising demand for protein-rich and convenient options, and a rapidly growing urban population.

Segment Outlook

Product Type Insights

How does the Frozen Red Meat Segment Dominate the Packaged Red Meat Market?

The frozen red meat segment led the market in 2024, capturing the largest share due to its enhanced convenience, preserved nutritional value, and extended shelf life. Freezing helps retain essential proteins, minerals, and vitamins in the meat, making it a practical and safe choice for consumers aiming to reduce food waste and plan meals in advance. Additionally, the ability of frozen red meat to maintain its nutritional profile, especially as a rich source of protein for bone and muscle health, further fuels its demand in the global market.

The Processed / Cured / Deli Segment is Expected to Experience the Fastest Growth During the Forecast Period.

Driven by the rising demand for convenience, versatility, and longer shelf life in red meat products. These products, such as ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook options, offer enhanced flavor and improved nutrient content, catering to busy consumers. Additionally, while processed red meats often contain nitrites and higher sodium levels, they remain popular due to their extended shelf life and added convenience, making them a popular choice in the global market.

The fresh / chilled packaged red meat segment is expected to grow at a notable rate during the forecast period. Packaged fresh or chilled red meat provides numerous benefits, such as increased essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and iron, being a source of high-quality protein, enhanced flavor and texture, longer shelf life, greater freshness, prevention of nutrient loss, and time savings.

Packaging Format Insights

What Made Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) / Vacuum Packaging the Dominant Segment in the Market?

The modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) / vacuum packaging segment dominated the packaged red meat market with a significant revenue share in 2024. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) / vacuum packaging offers key benefits such as reduced spoilage, enhanced quality and color retention, and extended shelf life. These formats extend the shelf life of red meat by slowing chemical reactions that cause deterioration. They also help preserve the meat’s flavor, texture, and color for longer periods.

The Ready-Meal Trays & Multi-Pack Formats Segment is Projected to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period. 

Fueled by increasing demand for efficient, convenient meal solutions. These formats offer extended shelf life, enhanced food safety, and better quality control, ensuring minimal human handling and improved hygiene standards. Additionally, the focus on streamlined supply chains and consistent food quality further supports the segment's rapid expansion, as consumers seek convenient, ready-to-eat options without compromising on safety or taste.

The trays with skin-pack or film segment is anticipated to grow at a notable rate during the forecast period, driven by multiple advantages such as improved product presentation and enhanced food safety. These packaging solutions extend shelf life, maintain freshness, and reduce food waste by inhibiting bacterial growth and preventing spoilage. Additionally, the ability to display products more effectively and the overall improvement in packaging quality and efficiency are further contributing to the growing demand for skin-packed or film-wrapped meat trays in the market.

End-Use/Channel Insights

Why did the Retail / Supermarkets or Hypermarkets Segment Lead the Market in 2024?

The retail/supermarkets or hypermarkets segment led the packaged red meat market revenue in 2024, driven by factors such as growing consumer demand for offline shopping experiences and increasing advancements in cold chain logistics and packaging. The segment's growth is further supported by rising urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and shifting consumer lifestyles that prioritize convenience, leading to greater demand for ready-to-prepare and ready-to-eat meat options. Additionally, increased awareness of the nutritional benefits of red meat has also contributed to the expansion of this segment.

The Foodservice Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest CAGR During the Forecast Period. 

Fueled by the rising demand for convenience food and shifting consumer lifestyles. Growth in this segment is driven by the expansion of quick-service restaurants (QSRs), institutional food services, and restaurants, alongside a growing preference for ready-to-cook options. Additionally, advancements in packaging and processing technologies, along with the growing need for both commercial and household kitchens, are driving rapid growth in the packaged red meat market.

The convenience stores/online grocery/e-commerce segment is projected to grow significantly during the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for quick, on-the-go sales and the convenience of doorstep delivery. This growth is supported by technological advancements in delivery and packaging, expanding e-commerce platforms, improved cold chain logistics, and rising urbanization, alongside growing disposable incomes. The ease of accessing packaged red meat through online platforms is enhancing its reach to consumers, making it a key driver in the market's evolution.

Animal Insights

What Made Pork the Dominant Segment in the Packaged Red Meat Market?

The pork segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2024. This is mainly due to its widespread availability in both frozen and fresh forms through various distribution channels, including online retailers, specialty stores, and supermarkets. Pork is sold in diverse processed forms, such as salami, ham, and bacon, catering to different storage preferences and consumer demands, further driving its popularity in the packaged red meat industry.

The Beef Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate Over the Forecast Period.

Driven by its high protein content and cultural significance in cuisines worldwide. Beef is distributed through various channels, including supermarkets, packaged goods, and online retail, with advanced packaging methods like modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and vacuum sealing to preserve its appearance, quality, and extend shelf life.

The lamb & mutton segment is expected to grow at a notable rate during the forecast period, driven by their strong cultural and religious significance in many regions. The growth is further fueled by rising disposable incomes, increasing demand for convenience foods, growing nutritional awareness, and a shift in consumer preferences toward the unique texture and flavor of lamb and mutton, coupled with rapid urbanization and an increased focus on nutritional benefits.

Recent Developments in the Packaged Red Meat Market

Beyond Meat

  • Launch: In November 2025, Beyond Meat launched the 2-Pack, a new value pack for its Beyond Beef product. This product contains more than two-and-a-half times the amount of Beyond Beef. (Source: Vegconomist)

Smashburger

  • Launch: In July 2025, Smashburger, a fast-casual burger brand, launched a beef-packed summer menu, Summer of Smash, which is built on culinary craft, value, and bold flavors. The aim behind this launch was to elevate the art of the Smash. (Source: The Nationsl Provisioner)

Top Companies in the Packaged Red Meat Market

  • Tyson Foods, Inc.: Tyson Foods Inc. is a major American company with substantial revenue, specializing in processing beef, pork, and poultry. This company is known for its large-scale operations.
  • Cargill, Inc.: Cargill, Inc. is a privately held company with a huge global presence in food and agriculture, such as a significant role in the meat products industry.
  • Hormel Foods Corporation: Hormel Foods Corporation is the leading meat producer with a high market value and has a strong presence in meat processing and production. 

Other Major Companies

  • JBS S.A.
  • Tyson Foods, Inc.
  • Smithfield Foods (WH Group)
  • Cargill, Incorporated
  • Marfrig Global Foods S.A.
  • Hormel Foods Corporation
  • BRF S.A.
  • Pilgrim’s Pride (JBS-owned)
  • NH Foods Ltd. / Nippon Ham Group
  • Minerva Foods S.A.
  • Danish Crown A/S
  • Seaboard Corporation
  • Conagra Brands, Inc.
  • Maple Leaf Foods Inc.
  • Minimally Processed / Private Label specialists (e.g., OSi Group, National Beef, Triumph Foods)
  • Perdue Farms / Sanderson Farms / Wayne Farms
  • Teys Australia / Australian & New Zealand exporters
  • Marfrig / Minerva / other Latin American exporters
  • Smaller regional champions & retail processors
  • Value-added and niche brands / plant-adjacent competitors

Segments Covered in the Report

By Product Type

  • Fresh / Chilled packaged red meat 
  • Frozen red meat 
  • Processed / Cured / Deli (sausages, cold cuts, hams)

By Packaging Format

  • Trays with skin-pack or film (retail fresh trays)
  • Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) / Vacuum packaging
  • Frozen blocks / bags / IQF portions
  • Flexible pouches & shelf-stable tubs (processed meats)
  • Ready-meal trays & multi-pack formats

By End-Use/Channel

  • Retail / Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
  • Foodservice (restaurants, quick-service, institutional) 
  • Convenience stores / online grocery / e-commerce

By Animal/Species

  • Beef
  • Pork
  • Lamb & mutton 
  • Game & other red meats

By Region

  • North America
  • Asia Pacific
  • Europe
  • Middle East and Africa
  • Latin America
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  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Vidyesh Swar, Senior Research Analyst at Towards Food & Beverages, specializes in market research, focusing on supply-demand evaluation, pricing analysis, alternative proteins, plant-based foods, and sustainable food technologies within the industry.

Learn more about Vidyesh Swar

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in Food and Beverages market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards FnB's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The packaged red meat market was valued at USD 630.45 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow steadily from 2025 to 2034 at a CAGR of 5.2%, driven by convenience food demand. Growth accelerates in Asia-Pacific due to urbanization and expanding middle-class consumption.

Major trends include the shift toward sustainable and ethical sourcing, rising demand for high-protein diets, growth of premium and clean-label products, and rapid adoption of MAP/vacuum packaging for longer shelf life. Smart packaging and e-commerce-led retailing further transform the landscape.

Asia Pacific presents the fastest-growing opportunity due to urbanization, rising incomes, and dietary shifts toward animal protein. North America remains the largest market, while Latin America and MEA offer strong long-term potential as cold-chain infrastructure improves.

Innovations such as high-pressure processing, ultrasonic cutting, smart sensors for freshness, AI-enabled supply-chain traceability, and recyclable mono-material packaging significantly enhance efficiency, safety, and shelf life, reshaping competitive advantage.

Stricter food safety, labeling, and packaging regulations—especially from bodies like FSSAI in India and EFSA in Europe are pushing companies to adopt advanced packaging and traceability solutions. Compliance increases operational costs but enhances consumer trust.

Processed/cured/deli meats are growing fastest due to convenience and longer shelf life, followed by ready-meal trays and fresh chilled categories. Frozen meat retains dominance for bulk consumption and reduced waste.

Foodservice grows fastest on the back of QSR expansion and institutional catering demand, while e-commerce and online grocery experience strong momentum due to convenience, better cold-chain logistics, and doorstep delivery.

The market is dominated by global leaders such as Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, Hormel, and Smithfield, supported by regional giants and niche value-added players. Investments focus on capacity expansion, automation, and sustainable packaging.