Food Systems

Global Meat Consumption Trends and Animal Welfare Implications

Meat consumption is rising in many parts of the world while levelling off or declining in others. These trends have enormous consequences for the billions of animals in agricultural systems.

Key Facts

Global meat production exceeded 340 million tonnes in 2022
Per capita meat consumption is declining in Western Europe and the United States
Consumption is rising rapidly in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa
Factory farming now accounts for the vast majority of meat produced globally
Each 10% reduction in global meat demand could spare hundreds of millions of animals per year
Plant-based and cultivated meat sectors are growing but remain a small market share

Welfare Considerations

As global meat demand increases, more animals are drawn into intensive systems with the poorest welfare outcomes. Broiler chickens, pigs, and farmed fish account for the overwhelming majority of land animals killed for food. Demand-side reductions in high-consumption countries can have outsized impact because per capita consumption remains highest there. Simultaneously, welfare improvements in rapidly industrialising food systems in developing nations are urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Reduce personal meat consumption, starting with the highest-impact categories
Support organisations working on welfare improvement in emerging market food systems
Engage with food companies to adopt higher welfare sourcing commitments globally
Advocate for international trade policies that include animal welfare standards
Share evidence-based information about the link between diet and animal welfare