Jerky Market

Growing demand for on-the-go product that requires minimum efforts that boost the market growth

The increasing demand for on-the-go food products that require minimum effort to prepare has been a major factor behind the growth of the jerky market. Innovation in packaging technologies, availability of jerky products with different flavors, and reasonable pricing of the products have led to significant consumption of jerky. The falling prices of red meat and the steady per capita consumption of jerky have spurred the growth of the jerky market. Besides its widespread popularity in North America and Europe, the growing popularity of jerky in East Asia is expected to boost the demand for jerky.

The increasing demand for protein-rich and nutritious snacks has cascaded the demand for jerky across the globe. The jerky industry has witnessed a surge in the demand for natural and clean-label jerky products owing to the changing consumer tastes and preferences. This trend is likely to influence the jerky industry as major manufacturers are expected to expand their consumer base and launch clean-label jerky products.

Additionally, there is a falling price of red meat and a steady per capita consumption of jerky which surged with the growth of the jerky market. The industry is also witnessing how consumers change their tastes and preferences when it comes to natural and cleanly labeled Jerky products. Hence these are some of the few factors which can prove to be a major contributor to the jerky market.

The Global Jerky Market Industry is poised for substantial growth, with projections indicating a market size of 4.81 USD Billion in 2024 and an anticipated increase to 9.17 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.04% from 2025 to 2035, suggesting a robust expansion phase for the industry. Factors contributing to this growth include rising consumer demand for protein-rich snacks, innovative product offerings, and enhanced distribution channels. As the market evolves, stakeholders are likely to explore new opportunities to capitalize on this upward trend, ensuring the Global Jerky Market Industry remains dynamic and competitive.

The Global Jerky Market Industry is witnessing a trend towards innovative flavor profiles, appealing to a broader range of consumer tastes. Manufacturers are experimenting with unique flavors, such as spicy sriracha, teriyaki, and even sweet varieties, to attract adventurous eaters. This diversification in flavor offerings not only enhances consumer interest but also encourages trial purchases. As the market evolves, companies that successfully introduce novel flavors are likely to capture a larger share of the market. This trend aligns with the projected CAGR of 6.04% from 2025 to 2035, indicating that the Global Jerky Market Industry is adapting to changing consumer preferences and expanding its appeal.

The Global Jerky Market Industry benefits from the expansion of distribution channels, which enhances product accessibility and visibility. Retailers are increasingly incorporating jerky products into their offerings, ranging from convenience stores to supermarkets and online platforms. This diversification in distribution allows consumers to easily access a variety of jerky options, thereby driving sales. The rise of e-commerce platforms further facilitates this trend, enabling consumers to purchase jerky products from the comfort of their homes. As a result, the Global Jerky Market Industry is poised for growth, with projections indicating a market size of 9.17 USD Billion by 2035, underscoring the importance of effective distribution strategies.

The Global Jerky Market Industry is increasingly influenced by consumer preferences for sustainability and ethical sourcing. As awareness of environmental issues grows, consumers are more likely to support brands that prioritize sustainable practices and responsible sourcing of ingredients. Companies that adopt eco-friendly packaging and transparent sourcing methods are likely to resonate with environmentally conscious consumers. This shift towards sustainability not only enhances brand loyalty but also positions companies favorably in a competitive market. As the Global Jerky Market Industry evolves, sustainability is expected to play a crucial role in shaping consumer choices and driving market growth.

The Global Jerky Market Industry experiences a notable surge in demand for protein-rich snacks, driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers. As individuals seek convenient and nutritious options, jerky emerges as a favored choice due to its high protein content and low carbohydrate levels. The market is projected to reach 4.81 USD Billion in 2024, reflecting a growing preference for protein-based snacks. This trend is particularly evident among fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals who prioritize protein intake in their diets. Consequently, the Global Jerky Market Industry is likely to expand as manufacturers innovate to cater to this evolving consumer preference.

The Global Jerky Market Industry is increasingly recognized for its health benefits, contributing to its growing popularity. Jerky is often viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional snacks, as it is typically lower in fat and calories while being rich in protein. This perception aligns with the rising nutritional awareness among consumers, who are more inclined to choose snacks that align with their health goals. As educational initiatives about the nutritional value of jerky continue, the market is expected to thrive. The Global Jerky Market Industry is thus positioned to capitalize on this trend, as consumers seek healthier snack options that do not compromise on taste.

By region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. North America dominated the market for jerky snacks in 2020 and accounted for 52.0% of the revenue share. As reported by the Simmons National Consumer Survey (NHCS) and the U.S. Census, approximately 50.0% of the U.S. population, which is nearly 160 Billion people, eat meat snacks and beef jerky regularly In U.S., jerky is one of the most popular meat appetizers.

Furthermore, the majority of the adult population in the U.S. eat snacks at least once a day.  This nation has the largest market for snacks in the world.

Figure 3:  JERKY MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2021 (%)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

in Europe, the market for jerky snacks is projected to expand at the fastest growth rate of 10.1% from 2020 to 2030. The growth is majorly attributed to the increasing demand for healthy protein-enriched snacks along with rising awareness of a healthy lifestyle. Germany, the U.K., Luxembourg, and Belgium are the potential markets of the region. Key companies have been entering the market to grasp the growing demand for jerky snacks. For instance, in September 2017, Jack Link's Beef Jerky planned to open a new manufacturing facility in the U.K. to increase production capacity.

Major market players are spending a lot of money on R&D to increase their product lines, which will help the Jerky market grow even more. Market participants are also taking a range of strategic initiatives to grow their worldwide footprint, with key market developments such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations. Competitors in the Jerky industry must offer cost-effective items to expand and survive in an increasingly competitive and rising market environment.

The major market players are investing a lot of money in R&D to expand their product lines, which will spur further market growth for Jerky. With significant market development like new product releases, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations, market participants are also undertaking various strategic activities to expand their presence. To grow and thrive in a market climate that is becoming more competitive and growing, competitors in the Jerky industry must offer affordable products.

Manufacturing locally to cut operating costs is one of the main business tactics manufacturers use in the Jerky industry to benefit customers and expand the market sector. The Jerky market has recently given medicine some of the most important advantages. Major Jerky market players, including Boston Jerky Co. LLC, Conagra Brands, Country Archer Jerky Co., Devour Foods, Golden Island Jerky Company Inc., and others, are attempting to increase market demand by funding R&D initiatives.

The Classic Jerky Company is a leading supplier of privately branded and nationally branded high protein products. Supplying the U.S. both private branded protein products and is the owner of Pemmican Brand Beef Jerky, one of the oldest and top-selling national beef jerky brands in the United States. We lead the meat snacks industry by providing quality products including organic beef jerky and pride ourselves on providing only the best to our customers.

Also, Country Archer Provisions is on a mission to craft real food to craft a better world through real ingredients, sustainability, and transparency. The number one jerky brand in the natural and specialty channels and a leading producer of delicious real-ingredient jerky and meat sticks, Country Archer crafts all its meat snacks with high-quality, premium, and clean ingredients. Made for outdoor adventurers, busy parents, athletes, and all the humble hustlers who want more from their food, Country Archer pushes the envelope with innovative and mouth-watering flavors, high protein content, and responsibly sourced, real ingredients.

The brand supports sustainable farming practices, including sourcing its protein from grass-fed and -finished pasture-raise cattle that are never confined to feed lots. Each meat snack is crafted with gourmet cuts of USDA-inspected 100 percent grass-fed and -finished beef, tender antibiotic-free turkey, and pork.