Meat consumption in Mexico has increased by 19% (13.5 kg) over the last five years, from 71.2 kg in 2020 to 84.7 kg in 2025, according to an article quoting Mexican Meat Council (Comecarne) data, published by newspaper El Universal.
This increase includes chicken, beef, pork, and turkey. Comecarne explained that the increase has been driven by social programs (government aid), and increases in the minimum wage, which has seen an historic increase – doubling over the period.
The 2.7-kg increase per year is an interesting number for a country that, over the years, has been a low meat consumer. Chicken is still the most consumed meat in the country, followed by pork and beef. However, it is worth noting that per capita consumption of pork grew at an annual rate of 6.7%, while beef grew at 2.7%, and chicken showed the lowest rate of the three with only a of 2.2% expansion.
The gap between chicken and pork consumption is closing. It is interesting to note that it is not because pork is cheaper than chicken, although it is cheaper than beef. Actually, consumer prices for pork rose below the rate of inflation, and Mexicans like pork. But Mexico does not produce enough pork and has become highly dependent on pork imports from the U.S. In fact, Mexico is the world's largest pork importer.
Aspiration and change
In 2025, Mexican per capita chicken consumption reached 38 kg, but Comercarne highlights something interesting. In its annual report, it states: “while it is true that chicken protein leads meat consumption among Mexicans, if family incomes continue to strengthen in the country, moderate increases in its consumption are expected in the future due to a shift towards more expensive meats.”
I am wondering if consuming other meats besides chicken is also kind of aspirational?
Notwithstanding, Comecarne also states that Mexicans are still below the recommended daily per capita meat consumption level. From what I understand, it is worth noting that eggs are not included in this measure of animal protein consumption. This is definitely an opportunity for the chicken and egg industry.
What do you think?
