Which meat is no 1? A Complete Comparison of Health, Cost, and Planet Impact

November 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2023 update on Statista, poultry has become the most consumed meat worldwide, surpassing pork. The question of which meat is no 1, however, depends heavily on the specific criteria used for evaluation, from nutritional value and cost to environmental impact.

Quick Summary

This guide compares major meat types—chicken, beef, and pork—across multiple dimensions including global consumption rates, nutritional profiles, potential health risks, affordability, and environmental footprints, providing a holistic view to help in making informed dietary choices.

Key Points

Consumption Trends: Poultry has recently become the most consumed meat globally, surpassing pork, although regional preferences for pork and beef remain strong.
Nutrition Depends on Priorities: While all meat provides protein, the best choice depends on your needs; lean chicken is best for low fat, while lean beef offers superior iron and B12 content.
Health Risks in Moderation: High consumption of red and processed meats is linked to increased health risks, but moderation and choosing lean, unprocessed cuts can mitigate these concerns.
Environmental Cost Varies Greatly: The environmental footprint of beef is significantly higher than that of poultry due to greater land, water, and emission requirements.
No Single 'Best' Meat: The 'best' meat is subjective, depending on personal values concerning health, cost, taste, and sustainability, and can be achieved through a balanced approach.

The World's Most Popular Meats: A Global Perspective

For many years, pork held the title of the most consumed meat globally, largely due to its popularity in China and the wider Asian market. However, recent data has shown a significant shift in global consumption patterns. As of 2023, poultry, particularly chicken, has risen to prominence as the most widely eaten meat in the world. This shift is influenced by several factors, including its affordability, versatility, and perception as a healthier option compared to red meats. Different regions also show strong preferences. For instance, while poultry is the top choice in the U.S., beef consumption per capita remains among the highest there.

Nutritional Breakdown: A Look Inside

When evaluating which meat is no 1 based on nutrition, the answer depends on which nutrients are prioritized. While all meat provides high-quality protein, other factors like fat content, vitamins, and minerals vary significantly.

Comparing Key Nutrients

Chicken: Lean cuts, especially the breast, are exceptionally high in protein and low in fat, making them a top choice for weight management and muscle building. It provides essential B vitamins and selenium.
Beef: Red meat like beef is a powerhouse for iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. However, it generally contains more saturated fat and calories than chicken. Lean cuts, such as sirloin or round steak, offer a better nutritional balance.
Pork: Lean cuts like pork tenderloin are comparable to chicken breast in fat and protein content, offering a nutritious alternative to heavier red meats. Pork is also a good source of B vitamins, especially thiamin.

Potential Health Considerations

While meat offers valuable nutrients, the health implications of consumption, particularly of red and processed meats, have been a subject of extensive research. High intake of red and processed meats is consistently linked to increased risks for several chronic diseases. The preparation method is also a factor, as cooking meat at high temperatures can create carcinogenic compounds.

Environmental Footprint: The Planet's Perspective

From a sustainability standpoint, there is a clear hierarchy among meat types. The production of beef has, by far, the most significant environmental impact.

The Eco-Cost of Meat

Beef: The production of beef, particularly factory-farmed cattle, is associated with high greenhouse gas emissions, vast land use for grazing and feed crops, and significant water consumption. Ruminant animals like cows produce large amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Pork: While less resource-intensive than beef, pork production still carries a substantial environmental footprint, contributing significantly to emissions and resource depletion.
Poultry: Chicken and other poultry generally have a much smaller environmental impact compared to red meats. They are more efficient at converting feed into meat and their emissions are lower.

Sustainable Practices

The meat industry is evolving, with many producers adopting more sustainable methods to mitigate environmental damage. Practices such as regenerative farming, methane capture technology, and optimized feeding strategies are helping to reduce the carbon footprint, particularly in beef farming. Consumers can support these efforts by choosing products from farms that prioritize sustainability, such as those that practice rotational grazing or invest in waste management.

Comparison Table: Chicken vs. Beef vs. Pork


Metric	Chicken (Breast)	Beef (Lean Cut)	Pork (Tenderloin)
Global Consumption Ranking (by mass)	1st (as of 2023)	3rd	2nd
Protein (per 100g)	~30g	~26g	~28.5g
Saturated Fat (per 100g)	~0.8g	Higher (~12g+)	~0.76g
Iron Content	Lower (~0.4mg)	Higher	Moderate (~0.98mg)
B12 Content	Good source	Excellent source	Excellent source
Environmental Impact (Emissions)	Lowest of the three	Highest of the three	Moderate impact
Affordability	Most affordable	Most expensive	Middle range

The Verdict: So, Which Meat is No 1?

Ultimately, there is no single best meat for everyone. The choice depends on individual priorities and dietary goals. If the primary concern is health, focusing on a high-protein, low-fat option like lean chicken breast or pork tenderloin is often recommended. Those seeking higher levels of specific micronutrients like iron and vitamin B12 might opt for lean red meat, but should do so in moderation. For the environmentally conscious consumer, poultry is the clear winner due to its significantly lower carbon footprint. Cost-wise, chicken remains the most budget-friendly protein source for most consumers. A balanced diet, therefore, may involve incorporating a variety of meats in moderation, complemented by plant-based protein sources, to gain a full spectrum of nutrients while managing health and environmental concerns. To learn more about protein alternatives and their impact, read articles from trusted sources like the American Heart Association (AHA).

Frequently Asked Questions

Lean chicken breast is often considered the healthiest meat for weight loss due to its high protein and low fat content. This helps to provide satiety and supports muscle maintenance while being lower in calories.

Not necessarily. While high consumption of red and processed meat is associated with health risks, lean cuts of unprocessed red meat can be a good source of iron, B12, and zinc. The key is moderation and choosing leaner cuts.

Poultry, particularly chicken, is generally the most affordable and cheapest meat option for consumers globally. Its lower cost is one of the primary reasons for its high consumption rate.

Yes, meat production has a significant environmental impact. Beef production has the highest footprint due to methane emissions and extensive land use, while poultry has a much lower environmental cost.

Yes, the meat industry is adopting more sustainable practices. Some options include regenerative farming, improving feed efficiency to reduce methane, and better waste management.

Red meat, like beef, lamb, and pork, generally contains more myoglobin and saturated fat. White meat, like chicken and turkey, is leaner and lower in saturated fat, making it a generally healthier option for cardiovascular health.

Processed meats, including sausages, bacon, and deli meats, often contain high levels of salt, nitrates, and other chemical preservatives. High intake of these has been linked to increased risk of cancer and heart disease.