Processed Poultry Meat Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product Type (Nuggets, Luncheon Meats, Sausages, and Others), By Type (Canned, Frozen, and Chilled), By End-User (Retail [Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, and Others] and Foodservice), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The global processed poultry meat market size was valued at USD 381.19 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 411.56 billion in 2025 to USD 754.14 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.04% during the forecast period. North America dominated the processed poultry meat market with a market share of 43.12% in 2024.

Processed poultry meat is produced from the treatment and processing of poultry meat to prolong its shelf life and enhance taste. Processed poultry meat has garnered immense popularity and acceptance over other meat types, such as beef and pork, owing to its price affordability and high protein content. The growing global demand for ready-to-eat and convenience meat products has further increased the popularity of packaged, prepared, and cured meat items. The global market is dominated by prominent players such as JBS S.A., Tyson Foods, Cargill Inc., Suguna Foods, and Danish Crown.

Processed Poultry Meat Market Snapshot & Highlights

Market Size & Forecast:

• 2024 Market Size: USD 381.19 billion
• 2025 Market Size: USD 411.56 billion
• 2032 Forecast Market Size: USD 754.14 billion
• CAGR: 9.04% from 2025–2032

Market Share:

• North America dominated the processed poultry meat market with a 43.12% share in 2024, driven by the strong consumer demand for convenience-based, protein-rich poultry products, and substantial USDA investments to expand local processing capacity.
• By product type, nuggets are expected to retain the largest market share in 2025, supported by their popularity as convenient, easy-to-prepare meals in both foodservice and home settings.

Key Country Highlights:

• United States: Rising demand for high-protein diets and premium-flavored processed poultry has significantly driven market growth; USDA invested USD 110 million in 2024 to expand processing capacity.
• Germany: Increasing preference for locally sourced, antibiotic-free, and organic poultry products is fueling market momentum.
• China: Strong demand from a growing middle class and large population base is boosting the processed poultry meat sector.
• Brazil: A major global poultry exporter; chicken meat imports rose by 13.8% YoY in early 2025, reflecting robust international demand.

PROCESSED POULTRY MEAT MARKET TRENDS

Increased Focus on Organic and Sustainable Meat Options to Aid Market Growth

In recent years, the demand for organic poultry has surged as consumers have prioritized health-consciousness. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for processed organic meat products, with prices often exceeding conventional poultry meat. This trend is further driven by concerns over animal welfare and antibiotic use.

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MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Surging Demand for Processed Foods Owing to Longer Shelf Life and Variety to Fuel Market Growth

One of the key drivers for the processed poultry meat market growth is the rising demand for time-saving and convenient food options. Moreover, there is a growing inclination toward products that require minimal cooking time and preparation, owing to the busy lifestyles of urban consumers. Processed meat products offer a longer shelf life and enhance the texture and taste of meat, making them ideal for use in various recipes and meat-based snacks. The rising demand for meat as a source of protein further makes processed poultry meat popular among consumers.

Rising Disposable Incomes and Increasing Demand for Animal Protein to Aid Market Growth

A rise in disposable incomes significantly drives the global market. Increased disposable income allows consumers to purchase more processed products, which are often perceived as more convenient and premium than fresh ones. Moreover, the emerging middle-class population further fuels the demand for animal proteins as consumers become increasingly aware of the nutritional benefits of protein. Poultry meat is popularly known as a great source of lean protein and is gaining popularity among health-conscious individuals, further fueling market growth.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Escalating Inclination of Consumers Toward Plant-based Proteins to Hamper Product Sales

In recent years, there has been a considerable shift in the global population toward vegetarianism and veganism for reasons such as dairy allergy, environmental concerns, health concerns, etc. This trend has negatively affected meat and seafood sales in different regions across the globe. The growing popularity of plant-based food among consumers has increased the number of plant-based meat producers. Market players are investing in vegetarian alternatives to traditional meat products and are also spending on creating vibrant vegan meat product lines.

Beyond Meat, MorningStar Farms, and Impossible Foods are some of the pioneers in the global plant-based meat industry. Inspired by the success of these firms, established animal product companies such as Tyson Foods and Hormel Foods are also capitalizing on this trend and launching plant-based new products. Such factors slow down the demand for animal protein, especially in developed economies.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Increased focus on Food Safety and Technological Advancements to Pave Growth Prospects

Food safety has become one of the top priorities in the poultry meat industry, and technology plays a vital role in maintaining the highest safety standards of the products. One of the key opportunities in this sector is the usage of analytics and IoT (Internet of Things) devices to manage and monitor food safety throughout production. Sensors placed across processing plants collect real-time data on humidity, contamination level, and temperature. Such data is analyzed through AI algorithms to identify potential hazards and help in immediate corrective actions that prevent spoilage or contamination. Such advancements help manufacturers ensure consistent quality of meat products and open new opportunities to expand their business and serve to large population.

Segmentation Analysis

By Product Type

Nuggets Segment Dominated Market Due to Convenience and Popularity

Based on product type, the global market is fragmented into nuggets, luncheon meats, sausages, and others. The nuggets segment held the dominant processed poultry meat market share in 2024. Nuggets are easy-to-prepare and convenient food options popular in fast-food restaurants or homemade. They are customizable and versatile and have various dipping sauces and flavor options.

The sausages segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR over the forecast period. Chicken sausages have been popular for decades and are considered a healthier alternative to pork sausages. These also offer meaty and savory flavors, making them appealing to a wide range of consumers across the globe.

By Type

Long Shelf Life of Frozen Meat to Drive Segment Growth

Based on type, the market is classified into canned, frozen, and chilled. The frozen segment is expected to dominate the global market during the study period. Frozen meat helps mitigate the growth of microbes and cuts down on after-death enzyme activity, which extends the shelf life of meat products. As freezing extends the lifecycle of meat, it helps in storage for months or even years. Therefore, these advantages of frozen meat are expected to boost the demand for processed meat products such as poultry.

The chilled segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Chilled meat generally retains a fresh texture, taste, and juiciness in the meat. Therefore, many consumers view chilled meat as a higher-quality option, owing to its perceived freshness and taste.

By End-User

Wide Product Offerings to Drive Retail Segment Growth

Based on end-user, the market is classified into retail and foodservice. The retail segment is expected to dominate the global market during the study period. Under retail, supermarkets/hypermarkets hold a prominent share due to various product offerings, extensive consumer reach, and frequent promotional activities. These establishments offer a one-stop shopping experience for consumers, thus propelling the segment's growth.

The foodservice segment is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period due to expanding fast and quick service restaurants and growing consumer preference for on-the-go food service.

Processed Poultry Meat Market Regional Outlook

By region, the market is categorized into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

North America

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North America accounted for a dominant 43.12% market share in 2024. One of the key factors driving this dominance is the convenience offered by processed poultry meat, which has become increasingly popular in the region. Consumer preference has shifted for processed poultry products such as sausages, nuggets, and others, making them a popular choice for lunch and breakfast. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), sales of broiler chicken meat grew 60% in 2022 compared to the previous year. The government in the region has also been supporting the market's growth by making investments and funding.

For instance, in July 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) invested nearly USD 110 million to strengthen the supply chain and increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity through the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program and Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program.

In the U.S., the demand for processed poultry meat is rapidly increasing, driven by rising consumer interest in high-protein diets and the growing popularity of quick meal alternatives. Moreover, introducing premium and new flavor profiles is further drawing a large consumer base, fueling market growth.

Europe

In Europe, the market is expected to experience significant growth, owing to evolving economic conditions, consumer preferences, and environmental concerns. Major European countries such as the U.K., Germany, France, and Spain are among the largest consumers of chicken products. A notable trend in the region is the rising demand for locally sourced, antibiotic-free, organic, and high-quality processed poultry products. Furthermore, the region is witnessing a rise in the consumption of convenient and processed meat products such as chicken nuggets, ready-to-eat meals, and other frozen products. The convenience of the products aligns with the hectic schedules and busy lifestyles of European consumers, making them an attractive choice.

Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific region's meat and poultry processing sector is experiencing robust growth, as there is a growing demand for domestic and global poultry and meat products. Major factors such as rising health awareness, rising disposable incomes, a rise in the shift toward convenience foods, and improvements in innovation and infrastructure are driving the sector's growth. Developing countries such as China and India are the major consumers of processed poultry meat products, owing to their large population size and a high proportion of young citizens.

South America

South America is among the leading producers and exporters of processed meat products, particularly poultry. Brazil holds a strong position in the poultry meat market in terms of volume. According to the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA), in March 2025, chicken meat imports reached 476,000 short tons, a 13.8% increase year-on-year in Brazil. Moreover, the rise in disposable incomes in the region has further increased spending on convenient and processed food options, leading to a surge in demand for processed poultry meat products.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa market is expected to hold a small share of the global market. Consumers in the region are shifting toward poultry meat, owing to its high protein content and lower fat than red meat. Furthermore, the growth of the region's quick-service restaurants and fast-food chains has propelled demand for processed and frozen poultry products.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Key Manufacturers Adopt Base Expansion Strategies to Strengthen Their Positions in Global Market

The global processed poultry meat industry presents a diverse competitive landscape featuring a mix of giant, well-established, and smaller local firms. The market is dominated by prominent players such as JBS S.A., Tyson Foods, Cargill Inc., Suguna Foods, and Danish Crown. They maintain their leadership through substantial resources, well-established networks, and enormous investments in technology and product development. Key players in the market have been focusing on base expansion strategies to strengthen their market position and enhance competitiveness.

For instance, in July 2024, JBS S.A. opened a new poultry meat processing plant in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The company invested USD 50 million in the expansion, and the new plant would produce chicken nuggets. JBS S.A. has emerged as a global leader in the market, driven by its large production volumes and the ability to meet high demand across various markets. JBS has also developed a large distribution network to distribute its production on a wide international scale, which makes it capable of penetrating several world markets efficiently. Tyson Foods Inc. has emerged as a second-leading player in the market, owing to its diverse portfolio of meat, which adapts to evolving consumer tastes and preferences.

LIST OF KEY PROCESSED POULTRY MEAT COMPANIES PROFILED

• Tyson Foods, Inc. (U.S.)
• JBS S.A. (Brazil)
• Koch Foods (U.S.)
• Perdue Farms (U.S.)
• Danish Crown (Denmark)
• Vion Group (Netherlands)
• Cargill Inc. (U.S.)
• Godrej Industries (India)
• WH Group (Cayman Islands)
• Suguna Foods (India)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• October 2024: Applegate Farms, one of the leading natural and organic meat brands, launched a new product in its breakfast category, APPLEGATE NATURALS Pancake and Sausage Stick. The new product offers a protein-packed, convenient option for busy families on the go and is made with humanely raised chicken.
• October 2024: JBS S.A., a Brazilian multinational company, inaugurated a massive breaded chicken and sausage plant in Brazil. The company invested USD 200.23 million in the expansion of the new facility.
• July 2024: Cherkizovo, a Moscow-based Russian food company, opened a new sausage production facility in Kashira, Moscow. The company invested USD 300 million in the expansion and the new facility would have a production capacity of 80 tons of sausages per day.
• February 2024: Godrej Tyson Foods launched two new products in the non-veg segment, including Yummiez crispy chicken bites and Yummiez crispy fried chicken.
• March 2023: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) invested more than USD 43 million in poultry and meat processing research, innovation, and expansion to support its ongoing efforts to transform the food system.

REPORT COVERAGE

The global processed poultry meat market report provides market size and forecast for all segments included in the report. It includes details of key market dynamics and emerging trends. It offers an outlook on key industry developments, new product launches, poultry meat market trends, and details on partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. The report covers a detailed competitive landscape with information on the global processed poultry meat market share and profiles of key players.

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Report Scope & Segmentation