Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market Research Report Information by Type (Turkey & Beef, Bacon, Lunchmeat, Pepperoni, Hot Dogs, Pancetta, and others), by Product Type (Frozen, Chilled, and Canned), by Application (Residential and Commercial), by Distribution Channel (Hypermarkets & Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, and Others), and By Region (Europe, South America, Middle East) - Forecast Till 2032

Europe, South America and Middle East Processed meat Market Overview

Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market Size was valued at USD 154.35 Billion in 2023. The Processed meat market industry is projected to grow from 2024 to USD 240.88 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032). The consistent demand for processed meat is driven by the surging demand for convenience foods, increasing demand for high-quality processed meats, and growing food service industries.

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Processed meat Market Trends

• Increasing demands for demand for healthier food products

Growing customer desire for healthier food choices is causing a major shift in the processed meat business. Customers are choosing goods with superior nutritional profiles as they become more conscious of the health risks linked to consuming large amounts of red and processed meats. This trend is primarily influenced by concerns about weight problems, coronary heart disease, and other diet-related health problems. Meat processors are adapting to this change by creating new products to satisfy customer demands. Reducing salt intake, getting rid of artificial preservatives, and using leaner meats are all becoming more and more important. To accommodate flexitarian diets, several firms are also concentrating on the launch of plant-based substitutes and hybrid goods that combine meat and vegetables.

Additionally, labeling transparency is becoming more and more crucial. Customers are looking for goods with guarantees of ethical origin and ingredient lists that are easy to understand. Manufacturers have responded by investing in cleaner, more sustainable production techniques, such as beef alternatives devoid of hormones and antibiotics. Individual customers are not the only ones following this trend; food service providers and merchants are also changing their product lines to include healthier processed meat options. In a competitive market, this conformity to customer preferences is essential for gaining market share. Therefore, the market for processed beef is changing as it aims to strike a balance between health and convenience, reflecting broader dietary shifts towards nutritious and ethically sourced food options.

Processed Meat Market Segment Insights

Processed meat Type Insights

Based on type, the processed Meat market has been segmented into turkey & beef, bacon, lunchmeat, pepperoni, hot dogs, pancetta, and others. The lunchmeat segment accounted for the largest market share of 44.73 % in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 4.55% during the projected period. Pork-based lunchmeats are not allowed in most Middle Eastern countries due to religious and cultural reasons. However, lunchmeats made from halal-certified beef, lamb, chicken, or turkey are typically permitted. Lunchmeat, also known as deli meat or cold cuts, is a category of processed meats commonly used in sandwiches and other quick meals. These meats are normally pre-cooked, cold cuts, and ready, such products are easy for people. Among the popular types of luncheons are turkey, roast beef, salami, bologna, and chicken. Most of the time, lunchmeat production involves curing, in which meat is flavored with some chemicals, and sometimes smoking the meat for freshness. The curing process most often involves sugar, salt, or preservatives of a chemical nature, also known as nitrites or nitrates, to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and also retain the color of the meat. Smoked meat has a special flavor and is also an excellent preservation of the product. Being ‘enhanced’ means that lunchmeats contain other ingredients that are used to mask the basic taste of the product.

Figure 1: Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market, by type, 2023 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Processed meat Product Type Insights

Based on the product type, the processed meat market has been segmented into frozen, chilled, and canned. The chilled segment accounted for the largest market share of 54.79% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 4.89 % during the projected period. Chilled processed meat refers to meat products that are stored at refrigerated temperatures to maintain their freshness and extend their shelf life without freezing. Cured, cooked, or seasoned meats are available separately in deli counters, in ready-to-eat forms, or are sold pre-packed in supermarkets. Chilled processed meat products include ham, salami, or other processed or fresh sausages, cold meat cuts, and various pates. The processing of frozen and chilled processed meat, starting with high-quality meat, is the first stage of the gunning process that is carried out where the meat is coated with salt, sugar, and synthetic preservatives such as nitrates or nitrites. These substances are sensible because the two major concerns in meat processing were the growth of bacteria and the retention of the meat’s color and taste.

Figure 2: Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market, by product type, 2023 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Processed meat Application Insights

Based on the application, the processed Meat market has been bifurcated into residential and commercial. The residential segment has accounted for the largest market share of 75.02% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 5.27% during the projected period. As processed meat is a staple in many households due to its convenience, flavor, and versatility. In residential settings, it is often used for quick meal preparation, making it a popular choice for busy families and individuals. The function of processed meat while at home is in breakfast meals. The commonly used products, such as bacon, sausages, and ham, are usually prepared and eaten with scrambled eggs, pancakes, or toast since they supplement the meal in a good manner. These types of meat are readily available, fast to prepare, and therefore ideal for busy breakfast hours. Lunches, as well as dinners, have the advantage of using processed meat. Turkey, ham, and salami are some of the sliced meats used in wraps and sandwiches, which require little time to prepare and can be topped with different sauces and vegetables. There is growing demand for charcuterie boards that come with a variety of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni with cheese, fruits, and crackers, which are also appreciated by the crowd. Such boards are quite popular, especially in parties and gatherings, as they are convenient and delicious without having ten served courses.

Figure 3: Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market, by Application, 2023 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Processed meat Distribution Channel Insights

Based on the distribution channel, the processed Meat market has been bifurcated into hypermarkets & supermarkets, convenience stores, online, and others. The Supermarkets & Hypermarkets segment accounted for the largest market share of 59.13% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 5.05% during the projected period. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are critical distribution channels for processed meats, playing a role in the accessibility and availability of these products to consumers. These large retail formats offer a wider array of processed meat products such as bacon, sausages, ham, salami, various other deli meats, canned meats, and ready-to-eat meals under one roof, hence enhancing convenience and value for the clients. Among the channels for distributing processed meat products, supermarkets and hypermarkets have the greatest advantage of the bulk of processed meat products available therein. Some of these stores often have several types of products and brands so that the demand of both broad and narrow market segments is satisfied. A good example is the availability of sausages that can be pork, beef, or chicken, as well as those made from plants. Low-sodium, organic, nitrate-free, or gluten-free are some of the processed meat options that appeal to different consumers’ diets. This diversity enables the consumers to be able to make the right choice depending on what concerns them the most, whether it is health issues, diets, or taste.

Figure 4: Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market, by distribution channel, 2023 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Processed meat Regional Insights

By Region, the study segments the market into Europe, South America, and Middle East. The Europe Processed meat market accounts for the largest market share 85.14% in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.95%. The processed meat market in Europe is a sector within the broader food industry, driven by both growing consumer demand and evolving production capacities. In 2024, according to the MRFR analyst, the average volume per person in this market is expected to amount to 16.6 kg, reflecting the strong consumer reliance on processed meat products. The nutritional advantages of meat, which is an important source of high-quality protein, lipids, and essential micronutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, are what drive this consistent demand. Many European diets are deficient in these vital elements, particularly in populations where dietary gaps exist. Over the past 50 years, processed meat manufacturing in Europe has increased, approximately doubling in output. With 59.08 million tons produced overall in Europe in 2022, the continent contributed more than 350 million tons to the world's total meat production. The continent's proportion of the world's meat production has decreased despite this significant gain in absolute terms because of growing production in other places. Several factors contribute to the ongoing demand for processed meat in Europe. The levels of meat consumption were found to vary between the ten European nations included in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. With women consuming 47 g/day daily and men consuming 79 g/day, Greece had the lowest mean consumption, while Spain had the highest, with women consuming 124 g daily and men consuming 234 g/day. These figures indicate a wide range of consumption habits across the continent, which can influence market demand and trends in different countries.

Figure 5: Europe, South America and Middle East Processed Meat Market, by region, 2023 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Further, the major countries and regions studied are, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, Brazil, Argentina, GCC Countries, Turkey.

Processed meat Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

The rising urbanization and increasing disposable income of the population in these regions have fueled the demand for processed meat products. As more people move to cities and earn higher incomes, they are more likely to adopt a Western lifestyle, which includes the consumption of ready-to-eat and convenience foods, including processed meats. Rising consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-eat foods like bacon, hot dogs, beef, sausages, and ham, which cater to busy lifestyles due to their ease of preparation and extended shelf life. Additionally, rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles are pushing consumers towards quick meal solutions, further boosting the appeal of processed meats. In emerging markets such as South America and parts of the Middle East, a growing middle class with higher disposable incomes is increasing the demand for premium processed meat products. Innovation also plays a crucial role; continuous advancements in flavors, packaging, and health-conscious options, such as reduced-fat and reduced-sodium products, are attracting health-minded consumers. Furthermore, the expansion of retail networks and online grocery platforms is making processed meats more accessible to a broader audience. Cultural preferences also support market growth, as processed meats are integral to traditional diets in many regions, such as bacon and sausages in Europe and ham in both Europe and South America. Opportunities for growth include developing healthier product options, adopting sustainable practices to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, and expanding into emerging markets where processed meat consumption is on the rise. Overall, the processed meat market is well-positioned for significant growth, driven by shifting consumer preferences, demographic trends, and ongoing product innovations. The increasing consumer focus on sustainable and ethically produced food products offers a chance for processed meat manufacturers to differentiate themselves in the market. Emphasizing responsible sourcing and production practices can attract environmentally conscious consumers.

Key Companies in the Processed meat market include

• Danish Crown (Denmark)


• JBS S.A. (Brazil)


• Hormel Foods Corporation (US)


• WH Group Ltd. (Sweden)


• Vion Group (Netherlands)


• Tyson Foods, Inc. (US)


• Kaminiarz (Poland)


• Ferrarini S.P.A. (Italy)


• Nestle SA (Herta) (Switzerland)


• Marfrig Global Foods SA (Brazil)

Processed meat Industry Developments

June 2024: JBS announced plans to establish a new plant in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as part of its strategy to diversify its offerings and increase its footprint in international markets.

September 2024: Vion Food Group has entered into a principal commercial agreement with Tönnies Group for the acquisition of the majority of its German beef activities. This strategic move follows a comprehensive review of Vion's German operations, aimed at focusing more on its Benelux market. The proposed deal is subject to approval from the relevant competition authorities, customary approvals and closing conditions and is expected to complete in 2025.

Processed meat Market Segmentation:

Processed meat Type Outlook

• Turkey & Beef


• Bacon


• Lunchmeat


• Pepperoni


• Hot Dogs


• Pancetta


• Others

Processed meat Product Type Outlook

• Frozen


• Chilled


• Canned

Processed meat Application Outlook

• Residential


• Commercial

Processed meat Distribution Channel Outlook

• Supermarkets & Hypermarkets


• Convenience Stores


• Online


• Others

Processed meat Regional Outlook

• Europe
  
  
  
  • Germany
  
  
  • France
  
  
  • UK
  
  
  • Spain
  
  
  • Italy
  
  
  • Rest of Europe
  
  
  
  


• South America
  
  
  
  • Brazil
  
  
  • Colombia
  
  
  • Rest of South America
  
  
  
  


• Middle East
  
  
  
  • GCC Countries
  
  
  • Turkey