beef particularly well for taste, protein, enjoyment and versatility, reinforcing its position as a satisfying and nutritious meal choice. 3 Consumers increasingly expect both nutrition and enjoyment from the foods they choose, and beef continues to compare favorably on both dimensions.
Looking Ahead
The priorities shaping today ' s food decisions are clear: value, convenience, protein, taste and more deliberate spending. While households are becoming increasingly intentional in how they shop and prepare meals, they continue to prioritize food that delivers across these needs.
Beef continues to earn its place on the menu by providing the taste, protein, versatility and satisfaction consumers value most. In a marketplace where shoppers are weighing every food dollar, those strengths remain important.
Health Considerations When Choosing Meals With Beef
Is High in Protein Building Strength / Muscle
Providing Enough Energy to Sustain the Day Is Rich With Vitamins and Minerals
Monitoring Fat Intake
Impact on Heart Disease Managing Cholesterol Managing Weight Loss Providing Mental Acuity
Managing Diabetes
12 % 19 % 19 % 21 %
Never Sometimes Always
29 % 31 % 35 % 34 %
41 % 51 %
38 % 45 % 47 % 47 % 46 % 45 % 42 % 43 %
39 % 30 %
“ High in Protein” up 6 pct. pt. since 2019
51 %
Source: Consumer Beef Tracker January – June 2026. BB14r1: How often do you think about each of the following when choosing a meal with beef?( Select one response for each row.) Analysis: National Cattlemen’ s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff.
36 % 34 % 32 % 24 % 24 % 23 % 23 % 20 % 19 %
References
1. USDA, Office of the Chief Economist,“ World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report: July 2026” and Supporting Materials.
2. Circana, Fresh Meat Sales by Volume and Value, Data Ending 7 / 12 / 2026.
3. Consumer Beef Tracker, 2026.
4. U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index, Not Seasonally Adjusted, July 2026 Release.
DISOVER THE NEW
SUCCESSION PLANNING ONLINE LEARNING MODULE
The new online module helps producers understand the steps needed to successfully transition their operations to the next generation.
Scan the QR code to create a free account and start the module today!
34 NATIONAL CATTLEMEN DIRECTIONS 2026