Meat snacks

The Rising Demand for Meat Snacks in the Food Industry

Meat snacks have become a significant trend within the food industry, offering a convenient, protein-rich snacking option. This article explores the various types of meat snacks, their growing market, and the processes involved in their production, offering insights for food consultants, food manufacturing consultants, and those interested in food technology consulting.

Different Types of Meat Snacks

Meat snacks are versatile, made from a variety of meats and suited for individuals seeking high-protein options. Some common varieties include:

Beef Jerky: Thin strips of seasoned and dried beef, often available in flavors like teriyaki and BBQ.
Meat Sticks: Small, portable sausages crafted from ground meat and spices.
Biltong: Air-dried meat, mainly made from beef or game meats, originating from Southern Africa.
Pork Rinds: Fried pork skin pieces offering a crunchy texture and seasoned with various spices.
Meat Bars: A newer addition, combining meat with nuts and seeds for a protein bar-like snack.

Market Growth and Consumer Trends

The market for meat snacks is seeing robust growth, driven by factors appealing to high-protein diets, low-carb enthusiasts, and on-the-go consumers:

High consumer demand for protein-rich snacks.
Increased interest in low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets.
Greater availability of diverse meat snacks, including unique varieties like bison and ostrich.
The convenience offered by on-the-go snacking options.

According to Grand View Research, the global meat snacks market recorded a valuation of USD 4.4 billion in 2020, projecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% from 2021 to 2028.

Leaders in the Meat Snacks Market

The competitive landscape includes established names and emerging players continually innovating:

Conagra Brands, Inc.
Hormel Foods Corporation
Jack Link's Beef Jerky
Nestle S.A.
Tyson Foods, Inc.
Bridgford Foods Corporation
Old Wisconsin Sausage Company
Country Archer Jerky Co.
Duke's Smoked Meats
The Hershey Company (Krave Jerky brand)

Commercial Production Process

The production of meat snacks involves sophisticated food engineering processes which include:

Meat Selection and Preparation: Begins with choosing suitable meats like beef, pork, or game meats.
Seasoning and Curing: The meat is seasoned with spices and may undergo curing for preservation.
Processing and Shaping: Meat is ground and shaped into various forms like jerky strips or sticks.
Drying or Cooking: Either air-drying or cooking methods enhance flavor and texture.
Packaging: Final products are stored in airtight packaging to retain freshness.

Producers often innovate with different meats and flavorings to capture diverse consumer preferences.

Conclusion

Meat snacks offer a functional and nutritional snacking alternative that is steadily gaining traction across global markets. For food industry consultants, food factory design experts, and food processing consultants, this presents opportunities to assist companies in optimizing production and tapping into growing consumer demands. With strategic food technology consulting and engineering, businesses can harness the potential of this expanding market segment.