Archive · 10 Jun 2025
Top Meat-Eating Countries Ranked: How Does India Compare?
Some countries eat a lot of meat, like Lithuania, Japan, and Argentina, where almost everyone enjoys it.
In India, a lot of people are starting to eat meat more often, even though some people don't eat it because of their beliefs.
India's meat business is making a lot of money because more people want to eat meat.
Even though some people don't eat beef, India still buys and sells a lot of it.
Lithuania, with 96% of its population consuming meat, leads the world in meat consumption.
Japan and Argentina follow, with 95% and 94% of their populations consuming meat, respectively.
India's meat consumption is growing, with 80% of Indians reported to consume meat as of 2024.
India's meat industry was valued at USD 55.3 billion in 2024 and is experiencing significant growth.
India is a major consumer and exporter of beef and veal, with domestic consumption at nearly three million metric tons in 2024.
- Who
- Consumers of meat in various countries, with a focus on the top consumers and India.
- What
- Ranking of countries by meat consumption and the status of meat consumption in India.
- When
- As of January 2025 for consumption data, with data from 2024 also provided.
- Where
- Worldwide, specifically in countries like Lithuania, Japan, and Argentina, and in India.
- Why
- To understand global meat consumption patterns and the factors influencing them, including cultural, economic, and religious factors.
- Leading Meat Consumer
- Lithuania (96% of population)
- India's Meat Consumption (2024)
- Approximately 80% of population
- India's Meat Industry Value (2024)
- USD 55.3 billion
- India's Beef/Veal Consumption (2024)
- Nearly three million metric tons
- Argentina's Meat Consumption
- 94%