List of countries by meat consumption per capita

List of countries by meat consumption per capita

The following is a list of countries ranked by their meat consumption per capita. This data provides insights into the dietary habits and preferences of different nations around the world.

Methodology

The data used for this list is sourced from reputable international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Bank. The meat consumption figures are based on the total meat supply divided by the population of each country.

List

The table below presents the countries in descending order of meat consumption per capita:

List of countries by meat consumption per capita

Rank	Country	Meat consumption (kg/person/year)
1	United States	120.2
2	Australia	111.5
3	Argentina	109.5
4	Israel	98.8
5	Canada	94.3
6	Brazil	92.2
7	New Zealand	90.2
8	Uruguay	88.6
9	Spain	88.2
10	Kuwait	87.7

Source: FAOSTAT

Analysis

The list reveals some interesting patterns and variations in meat consumption across different countries. The United States tops the list with a staggering 120.2 kg of meat consumed per person per year. This can be attributed to the popularity of meat-based dishes in American cuisine.

Australia and Argentina follow closely, with 111.5 kg and 109.5 kg of meat consumption per capita, respectively. These countries are known for their strong agricultural sectors and meat production industries.

It is worth noting that the list includes countries from various regions, indicating that meat consumption is not limited to specific geographical areas. For example, Israel, a Middle Eastern country, ranks fourth on the list, highlighting the global nature of meat consumption.

Implications

High meat consumption per capita can have significant implications for health, the environment, and animal welfare. Excessive meat consumption has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease and certain types of cancer. Additionally, the meat industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation.

Awareness of these implications has led to the rise of alternative diets such as vegetarianism and veganism, which promote reduced or no meat consumption. These dietary choices aim to address the environmental and ethical concerns associated with meat production.

See also

• List of countries by agricultural output
• List of countries by GDP per capita
• List of countries by population density

External links

• FAOSTAT - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
• World Bank - Meat production (metric tons)