Cargill’s 2025 Protein Profile delivers a timely and data-driven snapshot of how North American consumers are approaching protein in their diets—highlighting opportunities and shifts that directly impact pork producers and processors. The report identifies three key trends:
1. Protein Consumption Continues to Rise Across Diets
Consumers are prioritizing protein more than ever:
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61% of consumers reported increasing their protein consumption in 2024, a sharp rise from 48% in 2019.
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74% believe meat is essential in their diets, reinforcing the relevance of traditional animal proteins such as pork.
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63% of consumers seek protein-rich snacks, pointing to new product development opportunities in the pork space—think jerky, snack sticks, or ready-to-eat pork bites.
2. Value Is Being Redefined in a Cost-Conscious Market
Consumers are finding creative ways to get more protein while managing tight budgets:
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54% are choosing staples like ground meats, which provide affordability and versatility.
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37% are buying in bulk and freezing portions—favorable for larger pack sizes and family portions of pork.
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While eating out has decreased, there’s a rising trend of consumers recreating restaurant-style meals at home, showing strong interest in premium cuts or marinated, ready-to-cook pork that feels indulgent but is cost-effective.
Promotions also play a larger role, with 28% of foodservice protein meals being purchased through special offers like “buy one, get one free.”
3. Social Media Is Shaping Dietary Decisions
Digital platforms have a growing influence on how people explore and engage with protein:
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52% of consumers have tried a new food product after seeing it on social media.
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Online food communities are fueling interest in protein-forward diets like the carnivore and high-protein lifestyles.
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These trends open the door for pork to be part of bold culinary experiences, health-conscious routines, and online recipe inspiration.
Opportunities for the Pork Industry
These evolving behaviors point to tangible opportunities across the swine value chain:
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Product Innovation: Develop convenient pork formats (like portion packs or seasoned cuts) that fit protein-forward diets and quick-prep lifestyles.
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Marketing Strategy: Promote pork’s benefits in digital spaces, especially through recipes, influencer content, and educational nutrition messaging.
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Retail Packaging: Offer bulk or freezer-friendly pork options to align with the growing “buy-and-freeze” consumer pattern.
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Premiumization: Lean into the “elevated home chef” trend with premium pork offerings like pork tenderloin, ribs, or international flavor profiles.
Conclusion
The 2025 Protein Profile confirms that protein remains central to consumer diets, with meat—and pork in particular—continuing to play a vital role. As consumers balance health goals, convenience, and affordability, pork producers and marketers who respond with innovation, flexibility, and storytelling are best positioned to lead in the evolving protein market.
