French meat consumption rises

French meat consumption increased by 1.3% in 2025, according to data presented at the Culture Viande congress on September 29, with pork and poultry seeing the highest growth, rising by 2.7% and 3.3% respectively.

Beef and lamb consumption decline

This growth is contrasted by a decline in beef consumption, which dropped by 2.7%, and lamb meat, which fell by 5.9%. These changes are attributed to inflation affecting prices and evolving consumer habits driven by demographic shifts, urbanization, and the rise of single-person households.

Rise of single-person households

Between 37 to 40% of French households are now single-person households, leading to a preference for individual, quick, and easy-to-prepare meals. This has influenced the types of meat and meal formats that are in demand.

Snacking becomes a major trend

Snacking has grown significantly, reaching 3.2 billion euros in mass distribution, with a dynamic seven times greater than that of food in general. This trend is especially pronounced among younger generations, with nearly 70% of those aged 18-30 surveyed by Circana preferring products for their ease of consumption or use.

Innovation in meat formats

To meet these evolving expectations, meat producers and processors are focusing on innovation, offering more practical and varied formats such as ham, dice, and charcuterie for pork, ground meat, meatballs, and mince for beef, and escalopes and preparations for veal.

Inspiration from global cuisines

Inspired recipes from world cuisines are also being developed for lamb. Emily Mayer, director of studies for Circana, suggests that practicality, quality, taste, and conviviality can add extra value to products, helping them differentiate in the market.

Social media influences food choices

Social media is increasingly influencing food choices, with 52% of the French declaring they are influenced by social networks for their daily food, according to the Opinionway SIAL Paris 2026 study. The influence is most pronounced among younger age groups.

Health concerns shape consumer behavior

Health concerns also play a role, with 63% of the French worried about the effects of food on their health, prompting the meat industry to highlight the nutritional characteristics of products to support consumer choices.