U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market Grows on Convenience and Protein Trends

U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market Size, Share and Future Analysis

The U.S. packaged red meat market size reached at USD 97.83 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to increase from USD 101.06 billion in 2025 to an estimated USD 135.36 billion by 2034, witnessing a CAGR of 3.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. The U.S. market is remarkably growing with the flagging demand for plant-based meats and customized food services.

Key Highlights

• By source-animal-based, the beef segment dominated the U.S. packaged red meat market with an estimated share of 42% in 2024, due to the growing consumption of beef products by potential consumers. 
• By source-animal-based, the fully processed pork segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the nutritional content of pork. 
• By processing level, the raw/unprocessed segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 45% in 2024, due to the additions of several raw foods to the daily diet plans of consumers. 
• By processing level, the ready-to-heat cooked meats segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the ease of consumption and access to these foods. 
• By labeling type, the conventional segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 63% in 2024, due to the benefits of this labeling for conventional foods. 
• By labeling type, the organic/grass-fed segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the need for an organic certification process and organic labeling for organic food products. 
• By brand ownership, the national brands segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 62% in 2024, due to the popularity and importance of national brands for food products. 
• By brand ownership, the private label premium segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the preference for private labels on products. 
• By source-plant-based, the ground and burger format segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 6.8% in 2024, driven by the healthy food ingredients in burgers and customization options. 
• By source-plant-based, the marinated and cooked strips segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period due to improved performance of marinated meats for health and well-being. 
• By packaging type, the vacuum-sealed segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 39% in 2024, due to the improved benefits of vacuum packaging for food products. 
• By packaging type, the skin packaging segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the preferences for skin packaging solutions. 
• By distribution channel, the supermarkets & hypermarkets segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 48% in 2024, due to the expansion of these businesses across the globe.
• By distribution channel, the online DTC and retailer e-commerce segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the popularity of digitalization and social media platforms for retailing. 
• By consumer type, the budget-conscious segment dominated the market with an estimated share of 51% in 2024, due to the vital role of businesses in marketing their consumers. 
• By consumer type, the health-conscious and sustainable buyers segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the needs of these consumers for healthy diets and sustainable foods.

Industry Coverage

Market Overview

What is the Wide Reach of the Packaged Red Meat Industry in the U.S.? 

The U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market encompasses all animal-based and plant-based red meat products that are pre-cut, portioned, processed, and sold in sealed packaging formats through retail and foodservice distribution channels. This includes a wide range of raw, minimally processed, and fully processed meat products derived from beef, pork, lamb, and veal, as well as modern plant-based alternatives formulated to replicate red meat. Packaging formats range from vacuum-sealed and tray-packed to modified atmosphere and skin packs. The market serves various consumer segments across supermarkets, club stores, discount retailers, online platforms, and specialty channels.

U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market Trends

Which are the Positive Shifts in the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market? 

• Growing Consumer Interest in Ethnic Meat: The U.S. is becoming more diverse in terms of the growing demand for meats. There is a high demand from consumers to buy meats from different cultures, such as pork from Asia and lamb from the Middle East. Retailers and brands are receiving new opportunities to expand their meat product offerings. These offerings are driven by exciting innovations and adoption of current products. 
• The Rise of Personalization: Consumers are finding ways to personalize their foods. The online food ordering and delivery services by retailers enable customers to customize their meat orders. There is an increased need to enhance in-store and online shopping. The review of personalized product pages of customers or marketing allows businesses to improve customer satisfaction, increase loyalty, and raise sales. 

Market Opportunity

What are the Good Circumstances Shaping the Future of the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market?

Meatpacking is a largely expanded industry across agribusinesses. The leading companies like the Good Food Institute (GFI) are making efforts to make delicious, accessible, and affordable plant-based and cultivated meat. There are advancements in research, resources, and expertise which are empowering partners across the food system. They are dedicated towards creating more sustainable and secure protein products. 

Market Challenges

Which Barriers are Associated with the Growth of the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market?

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), there are issues associated with the contamination of ground beef products with E. coli O157:H7. Consumers are increasingly aware of their food choices and food consumption. There are concerns related to the climate impact on beef supply and the choice of beef by cost-conscious consumers. 

Country-Level Analysis 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) focuses on healthy food claims, nutrient content claims, food labeling, and many other essential food laws and regulations. The U.S. government also took initiatives to reduce the risk of cancer by reducing the intake of processed meat. The production and consumption of beef in the U.S. has grown slowly in the past few years. The USDA has updated important regulations due to the increasing political spending on the meat industry. In May 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection made efforts to bring agricultural products into the U.S. It also stated that the meats, fruits, plants, seeds, vegetables, soil, and animals should be declared by all travelers entering the U.S.

• In July 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the investment of $110 million in meat and poultry processing to create a strong food supply chain, boost competitiveness, and reduce food costs. (Source: USDA-U.S. Department of Agriculture)

Segmental Insights

Source-Animal-Based Insights 

How Beef Segment Dominated the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The beef segment dominated the U.S. packaged red meat market in 2024. Beef is rich in protein, and it supports muscle growth and muscle growth. It is rich in vitamins such as vitamin B12, niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6, which help to reduce fatigue and tiredness. It is also a rich source of zinc, and it supports overall health and wellbeing. The intake of beef supports fertility, reproduction, normal cognitive function, and maintains the testosterone levels in the blood. Beef provides a good source of iron and helps the healthy immune system to work. 

The fully processed pork segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. The potential health benefits of pork are muscle maintenance and increased muscle performance. Pork is a good source of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, niacin, protein, iron, and zinc. It is enriched with fats, protein, and calories.

By Processing Level 

How did the Raw/Unprocessed Segment Dominate the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The raw/unprocessed segment dominated the market in 2024. The various foods such as dried fruits, vegetables, soaked and sprouted beans, legumes, grains, raw nuts, seeds, and many other foods are suitable for raw food diets. A raw food diet can also contain raw eggs, raw fish, raw or dried meats, non-pasteurized, non-homogenized milk, and dairy products. Nutrient-rich meals such as raw green smoothies, raw cauliflower, bananas, etc. during breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner are suitable for the raw food diet. The fewer processed food are high in nutrients, help in weight loss, and retain enzymes in food. They offer more energy, clearer skin, and better digestion. 

The ready-to-heat cooked meats segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. Ready-to-heat cooked meats offer several benefits to consumers, including convenience, timesaving, reduced food waste, cost-effectiveness, nutritional value, and ease of storage. They are ideally suitable for patients recovering from illnesses and surgery and for people with disabilities. 

By Labeling Type 

How Conventional Segment Dominated the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The conventional segment dominated the market in 2024. Conventional labeling offers several benefits, including product identification, brand recognition, consumer trust, safety, and legal compliance. It allows customers to receive detailed product information, conduct product marketing, promotion, and improve supply chain management. It serves as a communication tool to inform consumers about ingredients and usage instructions. It supports consumers by guiding them about the potential hazards of products. It helps with product tracking and achieving inventory control. 

The organic/grass-fed segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the predicted timeframe. Organic labeling or organic seal is important for products that are organically produced. The organic products must undergo an organic certification process and contain an organic label. 

By Brand Ownership 

What made National Brands the Dominant Segment in the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The national brands segment dominated the market in 2024. The national brands offer reduced marketing expenses, a high level of customer loyalty, high customer trust, and promotion on television. They provide a high level of brand recognition, nationwide distribution, and repeated purchases by people. It is a brand of well-established product and is available in high-quality forms.

The private label premium segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. The private labels offer expanding profit margins, increased growth in terms of volume and sales, and enable greater supply chain control. They prioritize the preferences and needs of their customers. 

Source-Plant-Based Insights 

What Made Ground and Burger Format the Dominant Segment in the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The ground and burger format segment dominated the market in 2024. The ground and burger formats are a rich source of iron, vitamins, minerals, and proteins which help in muscle growth, muscle repair, and prevent anemia. They offer opportunities to add nutrient-rich vegetables and whole-grain buns and other healthy ingredients. They support consumers to achieve portion control and consume healthy fats and nutrients. It is possible for consumers to receive customized burgers with toppings and sauces based on their dietary needs. They allow food businesses to consider consumer preferences to offer better food services. 

The marinated and cooked strips segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the predicted timeframe. The marinated meat offers a good sense of taste and tenderness, and it also offers several health benefits. They can be present in the form of more tender, juicier, and tastier forms in addition to the health benefits.

Packaging Type Insights 

How did the Vacuum-Sealed Segment Dominate the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The vacuum-sealed segment dominated the market in 2024. The vacuum packaging inhibits microbial growth, offers oxygen removal, and provides barriers to contaminants. Vacuum-sealed or vacuum-packaged foods have extended shelf life, while vacuum packaging is suitable for the preservation of food quality, allows efficient storage, and protects food against freezer burns. Perishables, dry goods, and cooked foods are good examples of vacuum-packaged foods. 

The skin packaging segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the U.S. packaged red meat market during the predicted timeframe. The skin packaging offers an extended shelf life of food products, allows cost reduction, and enables production planning. It helps in the management of staff shortages and reduction of operational costs. 

Distribution Channel Insights 

How Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Segment Dominated the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment held the largest market share in 2024. Hypermarkets are present in more giant forms than supermarkets, and they contain departmental stores to stock multiple products. Supermarkets offer a broad selection of goods under one roof, being larger shopping centers for consumers. 

The online DTC and retailer e-commerce segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. The online DTC and retailer e-commerce services provide increased profit margins, deeper customer relationships, and enhanced options for customization and personalization. They also offer valuable data insights, disruption of traditional industries, and a seamless e-commerce platform. 

Consumer Type Insights 

What Made Budget-Conscious the Dominant Segment in the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market in 2024? 

The budget-conscious segment dominated the U.S. packaged red meat market in 2024. Budget-conscious consumers allow businesses to maintain convenience, provide guidance, and promote deals. The companies also utilize social media platforms and invest in analytics to market their budget-conscious consumers efficiently. 

The health-conscious and sustainable buyers segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the predicted timeframe. These consumers are moving towards sugar reduction, prioritizing environmental sustainability, and demanding natural and organic options. They are paying attention to sustainable functional food that have essential nutritional ingredients. 

Recent Developments in the U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market

BRF SA

• Announcement: In August 2024, BRF SA reported a net profit of $201 million in the second quarter of 2024, which highlights a strong market recovery. (Source: Swineweb)

Tyson Foods

• Launch: In June 2025, Tyson Foods launched the Wright Brand Premium Smoked Sausage Links due to the increasing demand for premium and protein-rich foods from the consumer. (Source: Tyson fFoods)

U.S. Packaged Red Meat Market Leading Companies

• Cargill Inc
• JBS S.A.
• Tyson Foods
• National Beef
• BRF SA
• WH Group Limited
• Hormel Foods Corporation
• Marfrig Global Foods SA
• Smithfield Foods
• Bavarian meats
• Conagra Brands
• Dubuque Packing Company
• Pilgrim's Pride Corporation
• Seaboard Corporation
• Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Source 

Animal-Based Packaged Red Meat 

By Species 

• Beef 
• Fully Processed Pork 
• Lamb 
• Veal 
• Blended/Combo Meats 

By Processing Level 

• Raw / Unprocessed 
• Minimally Processed 
• Fully Processed 
• Ready-to-Heat Cooked Meats 

By Labeling Type 

• Conventional 
• Organic/Grass Fed 
• Grass-Fed / Pasture-Raised 
• Antibiotic-Free / Hormone-Free 
• Halal Certified 
• Kosher Certified 

By Brand Ownership 

• National Brands 
• Private Label Premium 
• Premium / Specialty Brands 

Plant-Based Packaged Red Meat Alternatives 

By Base Ingredient

• Pea Protein 
• Soy Protein 
• Mushroom-Based 
• Wheat Protein / Seitan 
• Vegetable-Based Blends 

By Product Format 

• Ground and Burger Format 
• Patties and Burgers 
• Sausages and Hot Dogs 
• Meatballs and Crumbles 
• Marinated and Cooked Strips 
• Cooked Strips and Slices 

By Branding 

• National Brands 
• Private Label Brands 
• Foodservice Extensions 

By Label Claims 

• Non-GMO 
• Organic 
• Vegan Certified 
• Gluten-Free 
• Clean Label

By Packaging Type

• Vacuum-Sealed 
• Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) 
• Tray Pack (Shrink-Wrapped) 
• Skin Packaging 
• Sustainable / Compostable Packaging

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets 
• Club Stores 
• Discount Retailers 
• Specialty Butcher Chains 
• Online DTC and Retailer E-Commerce 
• Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Subscriptions 

By Consumer Type

• Budget-Conscious
• Premium Shoppers 
• Health-Conscious and Sustainable Buyers
• Ethical / Sustainable Shoppers