Meat Snacks Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis, By Product Type (Sausages, Bars), By Source (Pork, Salmon), By Flavour (Peppered, Spicy), By Nature (Conventional, Organic), By Sales Channel (HoReCa, Retail), By End User, By Region - Industry Forecast 2024-2031

Global Meat Snacks Market size was valued at USD 11.54 billion in 2022 and is poised to grow from USD 12.2 billion in 2023 to USD 20.18 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period (2024-2031). 

Meat snacks are a form of ready-to-eat meal. It is made of several types of meat, including beef, turkey, and pork. Meat is marinated in a curing solution to produce these snacks, which are then dried to produce the desired result. This kind of processing gives the meat a distinct flavor and scent. The shelf life of these snacks is also improved and extended by the marinating process. The concentrating effects of the moisture removal process are thought to be responsible for the distinctive flavor of these snacks. Additionally, there are a number of procedures in the creation of meat snacks. Initial meat preparation comes first, followed by the creation of the curing solution, processing and curing of the meat, quality control, and packing of the finished product. The antibacterial properties of the curing solution inhibit the development of dangerous microorganisms. In the regions of North America and Europe, meat treats are extremely popular. According to Statista and NHCS data, 42.13 million Americans consumed Slim Jim in 2019. In 2020, Slim Jim will continue to be the most well-known and popular brand of beef jerky and meat snacks.

Rising consumer preference for brands that follow sustainable practices such as zero waste management and eco-friendly packaging is driving market demand. Another element driving demand for meat snacks is the shift in customer choice from traditional meats to plant-based meat substitutes. Additionally, the market continues to desire traditional/originally flavored meat treats. Proteins with unusual flavors are expected to grow more quickly during the forecast period. The most popular flavors right now include spicy, hickory, barbeque, smoked, etc. Demand for meat substitutes is expected to increase due to the advantages of eating organic, chemical-free plant-based cuisine. The demand for snacks high in nutrients including omega-3s, iron, and vitamin B12 has increased, driving players to introduce fortified meat snack products. Customers who need nutritious meat snacks on the go have a simple choice in the form of portable snacks like jerky, sticks, and sausages. Younger consumers, who are looking for full and portable protein snacking alternatives, have been drawn to the processing innovations used by companies like Wild Zora and Wilde Boldr, such as slow meat roasting and value addition with exotic spices. The growing appeal of portion-controlled, preservative-free grass-fed meat snacks with a range of flavor profiles and bite types is expected to sustain the growth of the market in developed countries.​

However, market players must also consider the undercurrents of regulatory standards and volatile consumer preferences. The market is expected to continue to face the strict examination of product claims due to strict food control regulations, and any inability to support these claims may result in product recalls. The growing acceptance of veganism and vegetarianism among Western populations, which could reduce the size of the consumer base, is of greater concern to market players than the rising popularity of plant-based snacks.

US Meat Snacks Market is poised to grow at a sustainable CAGR for the next forecast year.