The World’s Meat Eaters: Where People Eat the Most and Least Meat Per Year

United States – Over 124 kg per Person Yearly

The United States leads the world in meat consumption, with people eating more than 124 kilograms per person each year. Meat isn’t just food here—it’s a way of life.

From backyard barbecues to Thanksgiving turkey, beef, pork, and especially chicken take center stage on American plates. The country’s massive farming industry churns out huge amounts of affordable meat, and cultural habits keep it firmly rooted in daily meals.

Whether it’s burgers on the grill or fried chicken at a family picnic, meat is as American as apple pie. This high level of consumption reflects both tradition and convenience, with busy families often turning to quick meat-based meals.

Australia – About 121 kg per Person Yearly

Australians come close behind, devouring around 121 kilograms of meat per person every year. Chicken and beef rule, but lamb holds a special place in many traditional Australian dishes.

The country’s wide open spaces support a thriving livestock industry, making meat both widely available and relatively affordable. It’s not uncommon to find a sizzling barbecue at any Aussie gathering, and meat plays a starring role at holidays and celebrations.

The strong link between farming and food culture keeps meat at the heart of the Australian diet, shaping everything from weekend meals to restaurant menus.

Argentina – Roughly 109 kg per Person Yearly

Argentina’s love affair with beef is legendary, with the average person consuming about 109 kilograms of meat every year. The country is famous for its steakhouses and asados, where huge cuts of beef are grilled over open flames.

Rising prices have recently made chicken more popular, but beef remains a symbol of national pride. Eating meat in Argentina isn’t just about nutrition—it’s about tradition, social connection, and identity.

Family gatherings often revolve around shared meals of grilled meats, making it clear that meat is much more than just food in Argentine culture.

Spain – Nearly 100 kg per Person Yearly

In Spain, people eat nearly 100 kilograms of meat each year, with pork leading the way. Iconic dishes like cured ham (jamón) and sausages are part of daily life and special celebrations.

Meat is a cornerstone of Spanish cuisine, showing up in tapas, hearty stews, and festive meals. The variety of ways pork is used—from delicate hams to spicy chorizo—reflects the country’s rich culinary traditions.

Whether at a noisy family dinner or a lively festival, meat is always on the menu.

Serbia – Close to 99 kg per Person Yearly

Serbia’s diet is packed with meat, as the average person eats nearly 99 kilograms per year. Pork and beef are the mainstays, appearing in everything from sausages to roasted dishes.

Barbecues and open-fire cooking are common at social events, bringing families and friends together over plates piled high with meat. Traditional recipes have been handed down through generations, keeping the love of meat alive in Serbian homes and restaurants.

The importance of meat is woven into the fabric of the country’s culture and cuisine.

Brazil – Around 97 kg per Person Yearly

Brazilians eat about 97 kilograms of meat per person each year, with beef and chicken sharing the spotlight. The country’s strong agricultural sector ensures a steady supply of affordable meat, making it accessible for most households.

Meals often feature grilled meats, especially at festive gatherings like churrascos—Brazil’s famous barbecue parties. The connection between agriculture, tradition, and everyday eating habits keeps meat at the center of Brazilian life, shaping both daily meals and celebrations.

Israel – About 96 kg per Person Yearly

People in Israel consume roughly 96 kilograms of meat per person annually. Chicken is the top choice, followed by beef and lamb.

Dietary habits are shaped by a mix of cultural traditions and modern convenience, with meat featuring in both home-cooked meals and restaurant fare. Family gatherings, holidays, and even street food stalls showcase the country’s diverse meat dishes.

The balance of old and new food customs keeps meat consumption high and varied.

Russia – Approximately 94 kg per Person Yearly

Russians eat about 94 kilograms of meat per person every year, with pork and poultry being the favorites. Meat is a must-have at holiday feasts and is a staple in everyday cooking.

From hearty stews to grilled kebabs, meat dishes are found at almost every meal. Family gatherings and celebrations often revolve around shared plates of meat, reflecting deep-rooted culinary traditions passed down through generations.

Germany – Close to 88 kg per Person Yearly

In Germany, meat consumption is around 88 kilograms per person each year, with pork taking the crown. Sausages, roasts, and schnitzels are just a few of the classic dishes that showcase Germany’s love for meat.

It’s not just about tradition—meat is also a big part of the country’s food industry and daily life. Whether at a beer garden or a home-cooked dinner, meat remains a staple that ties together German culture and cuisine.

France – About 86 kg per Person Yearly

The French eat about 86 kilograms of meat per person annually, enjoying beef, pork, and poultry in both classic and modern recipes. French cuisine is famous for balancing rich meat dishes with fresh bread, vegetables, and wine.

From coq au vin to steak frites, meat is integral to the country’s food culture. Dining in France is as much about pleasure as sustenance, with meat playing a key role in creating memorable meals.

India – Around 4 kg per Person Yearly

India stands out for its extremely low meat consumption, averaging only about 4 kilograms per person each year. Religious beliefs, especially among Hindus, and a long-standing tradition of vegetarianism shape the country’s eating habits.

Most meals revolve around grains, lentils, and vegetables, with meat reserved for special occasions in some regions. The diverse flavors and dishes show how satisfying plant-based eating can be, making meat almost unnecessary for many families.

Bangladesh – Roughly 4 kg per Person Yearly

People in Bangladesh also have a low meat intake, consuming about 4 kilograms per person per year. Limited income and cultural practices keep meat consumption low, with fish and lentils often serving as the main sources of protein.

Everyday meals focus on rice, vegetables, and pulses, making meat a rare treat for most households. This reliance on plant-based foods reflects both economic realities and deep-rooted dietary traditions.

Ethiopia – Around 8 kg per Person Yearly

Ethiopians eat about 8 kilograms of meat per person each year, with most meals centered on grains, legumes, and vegetables. Meat is typically reserved for special occasions, religious festivals, or family celebrations.

Traditional dishes highlight inventive ways to create satisfying meals without relying on meat, making it more of a luxury than a necessity for many Ethiopians. Community and celebration often dictate when meat is served.

Mozambique – Close to 8 kg per Person Yearly

Mozambique’s annual per capita meat consumption is just under 8 kilograms. Economic challenges and reliance on staple crops like cassava and maize mean that meat is an occasional addition rather than a daily staple.

For many families, meat is considered a luxury, reserved for important events or when resources allow. Everyday cooking focuses on plant-based ingredients, with meat adding extra flavor when it appears.

Haiti – Approximately 6 kg per Person Yearly

In Haiti, people eat about 6 kilograms of meat per person each year. Food insecurity and high prices keep meat out of reach for many, so staple dishes often feature beans, rice, and vegetables.

When meat is served, it’s usually in small quantities and stretched to feed as many as possible. The creative use of limited resources shows how communities adapt to make the most of what they have, with plant-based foods forming the backbone of Haitian cuisine.