Australia Processed Meat Market Outlook Report - Market Size, Share Analysis and Forecast (2025-2034)

Australia Processed Meat Market Trends

The opportunities in the Australia processed meat market are strengthened as processed meats offer convenience, providing quick meal options that save time. Their longer shelf life helps reduce food waste, while retaining essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. The market features a variety of products like sausages, bacon, and ham. In February 2022, Danish plant-based brand Naturli partnered with Botany Group to produce alt-meat products like mince and burgers in Sydney, offering locally sourced, eco-friendly alternatives to Australian consumers.

Processed meats are cost-effective, providing an affordable source of animal protein, which positively impacts Australia processed meat market revenue. Many of these products are ready-to-eat, requiring minimal preparation, making them perfect for quick meals. Their enhanced flavours from smoking, curing, and seasoning add to their appeal, while pre-packaged portions help with portion control and minimise food waste.

Australia Processed Meat Market Growth

The demand for the Australia processed meat market is driven by the industry’s role in creating jobs across processing, packaging, distribution, and retail. These products also have export potential, benefiting the local economy. Additionally, innovation in flavours, formulations, and packaging keeps consumers engaged. In June 2023, Charoen Pokphand Foods (CP Foods) introduced Thailand's first cooked duck meat exports to Australia, shipping 500-600 tonnes of products such as roast duck and crispy pancakes. This expansion taps into Australia's annual duck consumption of 50,000 tonnes.

The growth of the Australia processed meat market is further supported by effective processing and packaging that ensures food safety and reduces health risks. The market caters to various cultural preferences and offers customisable options for specific dietary requirements, such as low-fat or organic. Additionally, the quick cooking time of these products provides a convenient meal solution.

Australia Processed Meat Market Insights

• According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the gross value of pigs slaughtered increased by 1.4%, reaching USD 438.8 million in 2023. This growth indicates strong demand for processed pork products in the Australian market, driving market expansion and providing consumers with more variety and value.
• The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) forecasts a 2% increase in poultry meat production, projected to reach USD 3.9 billion by 2024-25. This growth reflects the rising demand for chicken and other poultry products, expanding opportunities for processed poultry goods within Australia.
• The DAFF predicts a 25% increase in the value of beef, veal, and live cattle production, reaching USD 15.7 billion by 2024-25. This significant rise highlights the growing consumer preference for beef products and underlines the expanding processed beef market in Australia.

Australia Processed Meat Market Drivers

Health-conscious Consumer Demand

The growth of the Australia processed meat market has been driven by the rising demand from health-conscious consumers for products containing lower fat, reduced sodium, and healthier ingredients. In response, brands are offering leaner cuts and organic options to support a balanced diet. Kangaroo meat, naturally sourced from the wild without human intervention or chemicals, is free-range and sustainable. With an overpopulation of kangaroos in Australia, particularly in New South Wales, their consumption helps to protect native biodiversity and reduce the ecological damage caused by their numbers, contributing to environmental preservation.

Increased Demand for Plant-based Alternatives

The increasing popularity of vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets has boosted the demand for plant-based meat alternatives in the Australia processed meat market. Many consumers are opting for plant-based products that replicate the taste and texture of traditional meats, leading to greater innovation in the sector. In September 2024, Australian plant-based brand vEEF launched a carbon-neutral range at competitive prices, which includes beef mince, sausages, and chorizo. The launch aims to make plant-based foods more accessible to a wider audience, catering to health, environmental, and budget considerations.

Opportunities in the Australia Processed Meat Market

The growth of the Australia processed meat market has been driven by busy lifestyles and a growing demand for convenience, leading to increased popularity of ready-to-eat products. Pre-cooked meals and snacks, such as sausages, sandwiches, and deli meats, offer quick solutions for time-pressed consumers. In April 2022, Integra Foods, part of Australian Grain Export (AGE), has opened a faba bean protein facility in Dublin, South Australia, as part of AGE's USD 20 million vertically integrated project, focusing on sustainable and energy-efficient protein separation methods.

Market Restraints

The Australia processed meat market faces several restraints, including health concerns over high sodium and preservatives, which limit demand. Stringent regulations increase production costs, while sustainability issues, such as livestock farming's environmental impact, reduce appeal.

Competition from plant-based alternatives and changing consumer preferences further challenge the market. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, price sensitivity, and ethical concerns about animal welfare also impact the sector, limiting its growth and consumer appeal.

Australia Processed Meat Market Share

Market Analysis by Meat Type

According to the Australia processed meat market analysis, poultry leads the market due to its affordability, versatility, and lower fat content compared to other meats. It offers a quick, healthy, and convenient protein source, appealing to households. Its popularity is driven by consumer demand for leaner meats with high nutritional value. The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES, 2021) reports that Australians consumed an average of 46.4 kg of chicken in 2020-21, making it nearly half of all meat consumed.

Beef remains a key staple in the Australian processed meat market, prized for its rich flavour and high protein content. Processed beef products like sausages, bacon, and deli meats are popular for their convenience and taste. Additionally, beef provides essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and amino acids, making it a preferred choice. According to the ABS, the gross value of beef, veal, and live cattle production is expected to reach a record USD 16.3 billion in 2024–25, a 19% increase from USD 13.7 billion in 2023–24.

The growth of the Australia processed meat market is driven by mutton, which holds a niche market in the country due to its unique and rich flavour. Processed mutton products cater to specific consumer tastes and provide an excellent source of protein, iron, and essential nutrients, appealing to certain demographics.

Pork is widely consumed in Australia, offering processed meat products such as bacon, ham, and sausages. Known for its versatility and rich flavour, pork is a key component of the processed meat market. It provides essential nutrients like protein and vitamins B1 and B12, making it a popular choice in many cuisines.

Market Analysis by Processing Type

According to the Australia processed meat market report, chilled processed meats, such as fresh sausages, deli meats, and cold cuts, dominate the market due to their convenience and freshness. These products offer quick, ready-to-eat meals while maintaining their natural flavour and texture. With short shelf lives, they are perfect for immediate consumption and easily accessible in supermarkets and specialty stores.

Frozen processed meats, like chicken nuggets and beef patties, provide longer shelf life and convenience, making them a common choice in Australian households. They are cost-effective, easy to prepare, and ideal for bulk buying and storage.

Canned processed meats, such as corned beef, spam, and ham, cater to busy Australians looking for convenient, long-lasting options impacting the Australia processed meat market revenue. With portability and versatility, they are perfect for stockpiling or quick meals, making them especially popular among families.

Market Analysis by Distribution Channel

The HoReCa sector in Australia benefits from processed meats due to their convenience, long shelf life, and versatility, which positively impact the Australia processed meat market growth. These products allow businesses to quickly prepare a variety of dishes while maintaining consistent quality. Processed meats like sausages, bacon, and deli items are cost-effective for catering services, improving meal efficiency. The Federal Government allocated USD 113 million for plant protein processing facilities in South Australia as part of the AUD 1.3 billion Modern Manufacturing Initiative fund, with an additional AUD 65 million investment from the state government.

Hypermarkets and supermarkets significantly contribute to the Australia processed meat market by offering easy access to a wide range of products, from chilled to frozen meats. These retailers provide consumers with convenience, bulk-buying options, and competitive pricing, while also enhancing brand visibility, allowing processed meat brands to reach a broad audience in urban areas. In October 2023, Australian Beef Co. launched a new premium selection of raw beef cuts, emphasising local sourcing and sustainability to meet the growing consumer demand for fresh, high-quality meat.

The demand for the Australia processed meat market is further bolstered by specialty stores, which offer premium or niche processed meat products, such as organic or gourmet options. These stores provide high-quality, unique products not typically available in larger outlets, appealing to customers with specific dietary requirements or taste preferences.

The online channel has seen growth in the Australia processed meat market, offering the convenience of home delivery. Customers can easily order fresh, frozen, or canned meats, compare prices, read reviews, and access a broader variety of products, increasing shopping flexibility.

Australia Processed Meat Market Regional Insights

New South Wales Processed Meat Market Overview

New South Wales benefits from a large urban population, which drives demand for convenient and ready-to-eat processed meat products. This market is influenced by busy lifestyles and growing health awareness. NSW accounts for about 35% of Australia’s chicken meat production and is the country's largest producer. In 2022-23, chicken meat production in NSW rose by 1.8% to reach 495,023 tonnes.

Queensland Processed Meat Market Trends

Queensland's processed meat market is shaped by its warm climate, which increases the demand for products that are easy to store and handle. As health-consciousness rises, so does the demand for lean and organic meats. Nearly half of Australia's beef production comes from Queensland, and beef exports from the state surged by USD 902 million, marking a 14.3% increase in the year leading up to November 2023.

Western Australia Processed Meat Market Dynamics

Western Australia's processed meat market is growing due to urbanisation and the rising demand for convenient meal solutions. Additionally, there is a preference for locally sourced meats and sustainable practices. The state’s livestock supply chains are significant employers, with over 7,700 individuals working in livestock production and another 4,300 in processing.

Competitive Landscape

The Australia processed meat market key players are producers of beef, pork, and poultry, offering a broad variety of processed meats globally. These companies prioritise innovation, sustainability, and fulfilling consumer demand for high-quality food products. They are known for producing premium beef, lamb, and processed meats, with a strong commitment to sustainable farming practices, animal welfare, and meeting both domestic and international market needs.

Key Industry Players

JBS USA Food Company Holdings: Headquartered in Colorado, United States, JBS USA Food Company Holdings was established in 2007. It is a leading producer of beef, pork, and poultry, supplying a wide range of processed meats globally. The company focuses on innovation, sustainability, and meeting consumer demand for high-quality food products.

Thomas Foods International: Established in 1988, Thomas Foods International is based in Adelaide, Australia. It is one of the largest Australian-owned meat processing companies, known for producing premium beef, lamb, and processed meat products. The company provides quality meat products while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Baybrick Pty Ltd: Baybrick Pty Ltd, founded in 1998 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia, is a leading supplier of meat products. It specialises in the distribution and processing of high-quality beef and lamb for both domestic and international markets. The company is committed to customer satisfaction and sustainable sourcing.

Australian Agricultural Company Limited: Founded in 1824 and headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, the Australian Agricultural Company Limited (AACo) is one of the country’s oldest and largest producers of beef. AACo focuses on sustainable farming, producing premium beef for domestic and international markets, with a commitment to innovation and animal welfare.

Other key players in the Australia processed meat market report are NH Foods Australia Pty Ltd., Teys Australia Pty Ltd., Greenham Group, Thomas Foods International, Nolan Meats Pty Ltd., and Stockyard Pty Ltd., among others.

Recent Developments

June 2024

Dematic launched its all-encompassing automation system at an Australian meat processing facility. The system integrates the Dematic Multishuttle Meat Buffer with freezer-rated AGVs, boosting safety, accuracy, and efficiency in cold storage. It reduces manual handling, mitigates health risks, and improves order fulfilment, with AGVs capable of operating in temperatures as low as -25°C.

December 2022

Harvest B launched Australia’s first plant-based meat ingredient facility in Sydney. The facility focuses on producing locally sourced, clean-label, and affordable plant-based products for food brands and manufacturers. This initiative aims to reduce supply chain carbon footprints, create local jobs, and provide competitive alternatives to imported proteins.