Meat Snack Sales Surge 45% as Protein Demand Fuels $1B in Processing Investments — CoBank, ACB

Event summary

Meat snack sales have increased 45% over the past four years, reaching $4.4B annually.
Since 2020, over $1B has been invested in meat snack processing, with major players like Jack Link’s and Chomps expanding capacity.
Beef supply constraints are driving innovation in pork and poultry-based meat snacks.
Consumer demand is shifting towards clean labels, high protein content, and convenience.
70% of Chomps’ consumers are now female, indicating a broadening demographic appeal.

The big picture

The meat snack category is experiencing accelerated growth driven by rising protein demand, GLP-1 medication use, and consumer preferences for convenience and clean labels. With $1B in processing investments since 2020, the sector is poised for further expansion, though regulatory and supply chain challenges could pose risks. The shift towards pork and poultry-based snacks highlights the industry’s adaptability in response to beef supply constraints.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds: Whether new regulations defining ultra-processed foods will impact meat snack sales.
Supply Constraints: The pace at which pork and poultry can fill the gap left by beef supply limitations.
Demographic Expansion: How effectively meat snack companies can appeal to new consumer segments beyond traditional male audiences.