Trends in meat consumption in the USA

TLDR

Red and processed meat consumption is linked to cancer and chronic disease risk, and in the USA—where intake exceeds the global average by more than threefold—understanding consumption trends is crucial for reducing chronic disease burden. The study aims to characterize trends, distribution, determinants, and public health implications of meat consumption in the USA. The authors analyzed FAO and USDA food availability data and NHANES dietary surveys linked to MPED to assess temporal trends and type‑specific meat intake. Meat consumption in the USA has risen, with red meat still comprising 58 % of intake and processed meat accounting for 22 %; average intake was 128 g/d in 2003–2004, and consumption patterns varied by education, race, age, and gender.

Abstract

Abstract Objective To characterize the trends, distribution, potential determinants and public health implications of meat consumption within the USA. Design We examined temporal trends in meat consumption using food availability data from the FAO and US Department of Agriculture (USDA), and further evaluated the meat intake by type (red, white, processed) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) linked to the MyPyramid Equivalents Database (MPED). Results Overall meat consumption has continued to rise in the USA and the rest of the developed world. Despite a shift towards higher poultry consumption, red meat still represents the largest proportion of meat consumed in the USA (58 %). Twenty-two per cent of the meat consumed in the USA is processed. According to the NHANES 2003–2004, total meat intake averaged 128 g/d. The type and quantities of meat reported varied by education, race, age and gender. Conclusions Given the plausible epidemiological evidence for red and processed meat intake in cancer and chronic disease risk, understanding the trends and determinants of meat consumption in the USA, where meat is consumed at more than three times the global average, should be particularly pertinent to researchers and other public health professionals aiming to reduce the global burden of chronic disease.