Europe Edible Meat Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Europe Edible Meat Market Analysis

The Europe Edible Meat Market size is estimated at 193 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 201.1 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 0.83% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The European edible meat industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer preferences and sustainability concerns. Nearly 46% of Europeans reported reducing their meat consumption in 2022, reflecting a growing consciousness about health and environmental impact. This shift has prompted meat producers to enhance transparency in their production processes and invest in sustainable farming practices. The industry has responded by implementing stricter animal welfare standards and developing more environmentally conscious production methods, while also focusing on premium quality meat products to maintain value despite lower volume consumption.

Technological advancement is revolutionizing the edible meat production landscape across Europe. The industry is increasingly adopting data analytics and blockchain technology, particularly in countries like Italy, where producers are utilizing advanced sensors to enhance traceability, transparency, and food safety. These digital transformations are enabling real-time monitoring of production processes, improving quality control, and providing consumers with detailed information about their meat products' origins. The integration of smart farming technologies is also helping optimize feed usage, reduce waste, and improve overall operational efficiency.

The European meat supply chain is undergoing substantial restructuring to ensure stability and resilience. The region maintains a robust livestock population, with Russia leading at 18.56 million heads, followed by France with 17.78 million, Germany with 11.3 million, and Spain with 6.63 million in 2022. This substantial domestic production base is complemented by strategic import relationships, particularly in the mutton sector, where approximately 20% of consumption is met through imports, with New Zealand supplying 89% of the import requirements. This diversified supply chain strategy helps maintain market stability and meet varying consumer demands across different meat categories.

Regional specialization and production clusters are emerging as key features of the European meat industry. For instance, in Italy, more than 70% of pig production is concentrated in the northern regions, while 74% of farms in the center-south operate on a smaller scale, creating distinct production ecosystems. This regional specialization is enabling producers to optimize resources, develop specialized expertise, and create protected designation of origin products that command premium prices in the market. The industry is also seeing increased investment in modernizing production facilities and improving distribution networks to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Europe Edible Meat Market Trends

Despite the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russia remains a major beef producer in the region

• In 2022, beef production in Europe declined by 0.98% compared to the previous year, owing to reduced pricing and herd reductions. Russia, France, and Germany accounted for roughly 40% of the beef produced in Europe. The European Commission has plans to use public intervention to support beef prices if the average market price of beef in an EU country or region drops below USD 2,416 per ton over a selected period. The European Commission may provide grants for private storage aid if there is a drop in average prices or a substantial change in production costs, another factor that causes significant changes in margins damaging to the industry. The EU also supports beef farmers through specific exemptions for producer organizations in the beef industry.
• Russia was the major beef producer in the region in 2022, with a share of 15.96% in 2022. This growth was facilitated by exceptional measures taken by the state to support the industry. Some of the measures include reimbursing livestock breeders for the costs of their production, purchasing young animals, technological modernization of facilities, and improving work in the field of livestock breeding. Producers are offered loans for the purchase of fodder, equipment, veterinary drugs, and the construction and modernization of livestock facilities.
• The Netherlands had the lowest production of 429,640 tons in 2022. The Dutch national cattle inventory has constantly declined in the last three years due to the exceeding EU pasture phosphate limits. In 2022, beef cattle numbers declined by 8.4% to 3,690,000 heads. The government has been trying to reduce emissions through a decrease in livestock farming, which negatively impacts the country's beef industry.

Increasing cost of feed and decline in slaughter of variants of cows are leading to price fluctuations of beef in the region

• During 2019-2022, the price of beef grew by 5.34% due to supply chain disruptions that caused a rise in wholesale beef prices while cattle prices remained low. The whole service sale of beef recovered due to a rise in foodservice sales, even of premium cuts, leading to a 3% rise in total consumption. In 2021, the decline in suckler cows, which are bred for terminal beef, by 245,000 heads (-2.3%) led to increasing beef prices. Inadequate facilities, hygiene measures, and improper handling of the animals at the slaughterhouses further aggravate the microbial contamination of beef, which can result in the transmission of foodborne pathogens to humans
• The rising feed costs also contributed to the increase in beef prices by 26% during the first quarter of 2022. High input costs, particularly for feed, may result in additional slaughtering and lower carcass weights, primarily on intensive cattle farms where feed costs will have a greater impact on farm profitability. Due to the rising food and meat prices, the region's beef consumption decreased to 10.3 kg per capita in 2022 (-0.3%). This trend was likely to continue in 2022, reaching -0.9% in the overall context.
• Owing to very high food price inflation during 2021-2023 in Europe, consumer demand for meat has been consistently declining, coupled with higher awareness about individual health and the environment. Due to the high prices and declining demand, beef production across many countries in Europe observed a decline. For instance, in 2022, Italy saw a production slump of 20%, followed by Spain and Germany reporting falls of 6% and 1%, respectively. France recorded a 1% increase in production, while the Netherlands recorded an increase in beef production by 9%.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Type

Pork Segment in Europe Edible Meat Market

Pork dominates the European edible meat market, commanding approximately 41% of the total market value in 2024. The segment's strong position is attributed to its widespread acceptance across European countries, particularly in Spain, Germany, and Denmark, where pork consumption is deeply embedded in culinary traditions. The segment benefits from extensive production infrastructure, with modern processing facilities and established supply chains across the region. European consumers show a strong preference for processed pork products like sausages, ham, and bacon, which has helped maintain the segment's market leadership. The segment is supported by technological advancements in pig farming, including precision farming techniques and improved breeding practices that enhance production efficiency. Additionally, the availability of various cuts and processed forms, coupled with competitive pricing compared to other meat types, has helped maintain pork's position as the preferred meat choice among European consumers.

Mutton Segment in Europe Edible Meat Market

The mutton segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the European edible meat market, projected to grow at approximately 1% during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer interest in premium and alternative meat options, particularly in countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Greece. The segment is benefiting from rising demand for organic and grass-fed mutton products, as consumers become more conscious about sustainable and ethical meat production. European producers are investing in modern processing facilities and implementing stricter quality control measures to meet the growing demand for high-quality mutton products. The segment is also seeing increased innovation in product offerings, including ready-to-cook portions and specialized cuts that cater to specific culinary preferences. Additionally, the growing Muslim population in Europe has contributed to the sustained demand for halal-certified mutton products, further supporting the segment's growth trajectory.

Remaining Segments in Europe Edible Meat Market

The European edible meat market encompasses several other significant segments, including poultry, beef, and other specialty meats. The poultry segment maintains a strong presence due to its affordability and perception as a healthier meat option, while also benefiting from extensive processing capabilities and diverse product offerings. The beef segment continues to be an important component of the market, particularly in countries with strong cattle farming traditions, and is characterized by premium positioning and high-quality standards. The other meat segment, which includes specialty meats like rabbit and horse meat, serves niche markets and specific regional preferences, contributing to the overall diversity of the European meat market. These segments are continuously evolving with new product innovations, improved processing technologies, and changing consumer preferences toward different meat varieties.

Segment Analysis: Form

Fresh/Chilled Segment in Europe Edible Meat Market

The fresh meat segment dominates the European edible meat market, accounting for approximately 41% market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is driven by European consumers' strong preference for fresh meat products and their emphasis on quality and authenticity. The segment particularly benefits from traditional shopping patterns where consumers prefer to purchase fresh meat from specialized butcher shops, especially in countries like Germany where the tradition remains strong. Fresh/chilled meat is highly valued in the retail sector, with supermarkets and hypermarkets dedicating significant shelf space to fresh meat counters. The segment's success is also supported by advanced cold chain infrastructure across Europe, enabling efficient distribution while maintaining product quality and safety. Additionally, the growing consumer awareness about health benefits associated with fresh meat consumption compared to processed alternatives has further strengthened this segment's market position.

Processed Segment in Europe Edible Meat Market

The processed meat segment is experiencing the fastest growth in the European edible meat market, projected to grow at approximately 1% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient food options and ready-to-eat processed meat products. Manufacturers are focusing on innovative product development, introducing unique flavors and formats to cater to evolving consumer preferences. The segment is benefiting from technological advancements in meat processing, with automated production techniques reshaping the beef and pork processing industries. Modern trade channels and rising internet penetration are boosting the availability of processed meat products, while consumers increasingly seek ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meat products with enhanced taste and quality. The segment's growth is further supported by improvements in packaging technology and shelf-life extension methods.

Remaining Segments in Form Segmentation

The frozen meat and canned segments complete the European edible meat market's form segmentation. The frozen meat segment maintains a significant presence in the market, particularly strong in the retail sector where consumers value the convenience and longer shelf life of frozen meat products. Advanced freezing technologies and improved cold chain infrastructure support this segment's stability. The canned meat segment, while smaller, serves a specific market need for long-shelf-life products and emergency food supplies. Both segments benefit from ongoing innovations in packaging and preservation technologies, as well as the growing demand for convenient meal solutions among European consumers. These segments are particularly important in the food service industry and institutional markets, where storage and handling requirements often favor frozen meat and canned formats over fresh alternatives.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Segment in Europe Edible Meat Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the European edible meat market, accounting for approximately 70% of the total market value in 2024. This dominance is attributed to their ability to provide economies of scale in procurement and more efficient operations, enabling them to offer competitive prices to consumers. These retail formats have become convenient one-stop shops in densely populated areas, offering a broad and high-quality assortment of fresh meats. The segment's strong position is further reinforced by technological advancements, with many stores implementing automated checkouts, sensor tags on products, and digital signage that provides detailed product information, including origins and nutritional qualities of meat products. Supermarkets are also adapting to changing consumer preferences by offering various delivery options such as buy online-pickup in store, curbside pickup, and direct-to-door delivery services, making meat shopping more convenient for customers.

Online Channel Segment in Europe Edible Meat Market

The online channel is emerging as the most dynamic segment in the European edible meat market, projected to grow at approximately 6% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth is driven by increasing internet penetration across European countries and changing consumer preferences towards convenient shopping options. E-commerce platforms are gaining popularity by offering consumers the ability to compare numerous products and make informed purchases. The segment's growth is further supported by the implementation of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics, which enhance the overall online shopping experience. Online retailers are attracting customers through various value-added services such as expedited delivery, multiple payment gateway options, attractive rebates, and promotional discounts. The channel also benefits from the strong influence of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, allowing manufacturers to directly communicate with current and potential customers.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The European edible meat market is also served through other significant distribution channels, including convenience stores and on-trade establishments. Convenience stores play a crucial role in providing quick access to meat products, particularly in busy urban areas and near gas stations. These stores often focus on ready-to-eat and processed meat products, catering to time-conscious consumers. The on-trade channel, comprising restaurants, hotels, and other foodservice establishments, remains a vital segment for premium meat products and specialized cuts. This channel is particularly important for introducing innovative meat dishes and maintaining traditional European meat consumption patterns. Both these channels continue to evolve with changing consumer preferences, with convenience stores implementing self-service checkouts and on-trade establishments expanding their delivery services through various food delivery platforms.

Europe Edible Meat Market Geography Segment Analysis

Edible Meat Market in Germany

Germany stands as the dominant force in Europe's edible meat market, commanding approximately 13% of the total market value in 2024. The country's meat industry is characterized by its expertise in large-scale pig breeding, particularly in developing pigs weighing over 160 kg for premium ham production. The German poultry production industry has gained recognition for maintaining short distances between farms and slaughterhouses, ensuring efficient processing under strict hygienic conditions and veterinary supervision. However, the country has witnessed changes in production patterns, with pig farming experiencing a decline while poultry meat production remains stable. The rising costs of natural gas in the European market have significantly impacted sow farmers, with production costs increasing by $8 to $10 per piglet in recent years. Additionally, the costs associated with finisher pigs, broilers, and laying hens have risen due to escalating energy bills. The market has also seen other notable vegan launches recently, which may influence the German edible meat market's future growth trajectory.

Edible Meat Market in Italy

Italy emerges as the most dynamic market in the European edible meat sector, projected to grow at approximately 1% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The Italian market demonstrates a unique consumption pattern where pork products hold significant cultural importance, with various traditional products like salami, antipasto, and guanciale enjoying substantial consumer demand. The government has shown strong support for the industry, particularly in protecting pig farms from African swine fever, with a substantial budget allocation. The country's meat processing sector is experiencing technological advancement, with increasing adoption of data analytics and blockchain technology to enhance traceability, transparency, and food safety. Each region of Italy is renowned for its distinctive cured meats, known as salumi, which are deeply rooted in local traditions and continue to drive market growth. The market is also seeing evolution in consumer preferences, with a growing emphasis on premium meat products despite overall consumption patterns showing some moderation.

Edible Meat Market in Russia

Russia's edible meat market demonstrates robust performance, driven primarily by its strong poultry meat sector. The country has implemented exceptional measures to support its meat industry, including reimbursing livestock breeders for production costs, facilitating the purchase of young animals, and supporting technological modernization of facilities. The market structure shows a particular strength in chicken consumption, which has emerged as the most affordable protein source in the country. The government's strategic focus on developing the poultry industry has resulted in significant improvements in production efficiency and quality standards. Russian consumers show a strong preference for domestically produced meat products, influenced by both cultural preferences and government policies promoting food self-sufficiency. The market also benefits from well-established distribution networks, with major retailers like Magnit and Pyaterochka expanding their presence and improving cold chain infrastructure.

Edible Meat Market in France

France's edible meat market showcases a sophisticated balance between traditional consumption patterns and evolving consumer preferences. The country maintains its position as a significant player in the European meat sector, particularly in beef production, with 25 different breeds raised solely for meat production. The French market is characterized by its strong emphasis on quality and origin certification, with strict regulations governing meat production and distribution. Consumer behavior in France shows increasing consciousness about meat consumption, with many citizens actively managing their intake while maintaining a preference for high-quality products. The country's meat industry benefits from well-developed infrastructure, including modern processing facilities and efficient distribution networks. The market also demonstrates strong integration between producers, processors, and retailers, enabling better quality control and traceability throughout the supply chain.

Edible Meat Market in Other Countries

The remaining European countries, including Spain, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, each contribute uniquely to the region's meat market dynamics. Spain stands out for its significant pork production and export capabilities, while the Netherlands leverages its advanced agricultural technology and efficient farming practices. The United Kingdom maintains a strong focus on quality assurance and animal welfare standards in its meat production. These markets share common trends such as increasing consumer awareness about sustainability and animal welfare, growing demand for organic meat products, and the adoption of advanced technologies in meat processing and distribution. The markets also face similar challenges, including rising production costs, environmental concerns, and changing consumer preferences toward alternative protein sources. Despite these challenges, each country maintains its distinctive characteristics in terms of consumption patterns, regulatory frameworks, and market structure, contributing to the overall diversity and resilience of the European meat market.

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