UN Report Shows Massive Rise in Global Chicken Consumption

Published: 5 June 2026
The English Chronicle Desk
The English Chronicle Online

The average person now consumes six times more chicken than in 1961, according to a new United Nations report highlighting dramatic changes in global eating habits over recent decades.

Researchers said rising incomes, urbanisation, population growth and the affordability of poultry have transformed chicken into one of the world’s most widely consumed sources of protein.

The report noted that chicken production has expanded rapidly across both developed and developing economies due to lower costs and faster production cycles compared with beef and other livestock.

Food industry analysts say poultry has become increasingly popular because it is often viewed as cheaper, more accessible and healthier than red meat.

Global demand has also been driven by the expansion of fast-food industries, processed food manufacturing and changing diets linked to urban lifestyles.

Health experts noted that while chicken can provide valuable protein and nutrients, concerns remain over excessive consumption of processed poultry products high in salt, fat and additives.

Environmental researchers say the poultry industry generally produces lower carbon emissions than beef production, though large-scale industrial farming still raises concerns involving land use, water consumption and animal welfare.

Animal rights organisations continue calling for improved conditions within intensive poultry farming systems, warning that rapid production growth can create overcrowding and disease risks.

Economists believe rising chicken consumption reflects broader shifts in global agriculture and food supply chains as producers adapt to growing demand from expanding middle-class populations.

The UN report also highlighted increasing pressure on food systems to balance affordability, sustainability and nutrition as global populations continue rising.

Several countries have seen poultry become a central part of daily diets, replacing traditional food patterns and reshaping agricultural markets worldwide.

Climate experts warned that future food demand could further strain environmental resources unless farming systems become more sustainable and efficient.

The findings have renewed debate over the long-term future of global meat consumption, food security and sustainable agriculture policies.

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