Beef Demand Plummets as Supply Chain Disruptions and Screwworm Outbreak Hit U.S. Consumers
Event summary
- 55% of U.S. consumers are buying less beef or have stopped entirely due to rising prices, the New World screwworm outbreak, and global trade disruptions.
- One-third of consumers have increased overall protein purchases in the past six months, shifting spending toward chicken, eggs, canned proteins, and other alternatives.
- 78% of respondents are concerned that the screwworm outbreak could further affect beef prices or availability.
- 40% of beef buyers are purchasing beef less frequently, while 15% have largely or completely stopped buying beef due to rising prices.
The big picture
The survey highlights a significant shift in consumer behavior driven by supply chain disruptions, including the New World screwworm outbreak and rising fuel costs. This trend is reshaping the protein market, with consumers prioritizing affordability and health goals over brand loyalty. The data suggests that companies able to offer value, variety, and availability will be best positioned to retain shoppers in this volatile landscape.
What we're watching
- Supply Chain Adaptation
- How grocery supply chains will adjust to simultaneous shifts in protein demand, with consumers abandoning beef while flooding into other categories.
- Brand Loyalty
- Whether brands and retailers can maintain customer loyalty amid rising prices and increased price sensitivity, particularly for high-protein items like whey protein.
- Generational Trends
- The pace at which younger generations will continue to drive demand for alternative proteins and health-conscious shopping behaviors.