Tag: Per capita beef

While the world's beef consumption reached approximately 130 billion pounds in 2020, determining who buys the most beef involves distinguishing between total volume and per capita metrics. The United States consistently ranks as the top consumer by total volume, though other nations lead in individual consumption. This article explores the nuances behind these figures, highlighting major players in the global beef market.

According to a 2023 study published in *Nutrients*, the average American aged two and older consumes 42.2 grams (or 1.5 ounces) of beef per day. This figure, however, can be misleading, as it is heavily skewed by a small group of Americans who consume a disproportionately large amount of red meat.

Americans consumed over 58 pounds of beef per capita in 2024, translating to a substantial daily intake when multiplied across the entire population. The question of 'How much beef is consumed in the US per day?' reveals broader insights into dietary habits, market dynamics, and a significant divide in consumption patterns.

According to USDA data for 2025, the United States is the top market for beef and veal consumption by total volume, consuming over 12.65 million metric tons annually. However, this ranking changes significantly when considering per capita consumption, where countries with smaller populations but deeply ingrained beef cultures take the lead. The distinction between total and individual consumption is crucial for understanding global dietary habits.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global meat consumption has been steadily increasing, yet figuring out exactly how much beef is eaten per day can be complex due to vast regional differences in diet, economics, and culture. While global averages exist, a daily per capita figure masks enormous variations, with some countries consuming significantly more than others.