RESEARCH: Fresh Beef Sales Increase More Than Other Proteins
Despite inflationary pressures and higher retail beef prices, consumer demand for beef remains robust, according to The Beef Checkoff’s market research. 2024 data shows fresh beef sales at retail are up 9.3 percent in value and 3.8 percent in volume compared to 2023, with ground beef and steaks driving growth. While beef faces price competition from chicken and pork, its superior taste, versatility and eating experience continue to appeal to consumers. The study also shows expected changes in consumer shopping and dining behavior and how Beef Checkoff dollars have helped prevent declines in beef demand. See the research.
The Beef Checkoff program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents on the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.
