Fresh pork consumption is on the rise in Argentina, a country that is known for consuming more beef than any other in the world, reports The Washington Post. A nation of about 46 million people, where cattle outnumber people and cows are grass-fed for at least part of their lives before slaughter, the importance of beef is unquestionable.
According to the Post, however, Argentina’s per capita consumption in 2024 is down to about 104 lb, as compared to the historical average of 157 lb. Still, this comes in much higher than the U.S. (84 lb.) or neighbors Brazil (75 lb.) and Chile (57 lb.).
Why the change?
A tough economy is one reason why more Argentines are turning to lower-priced pork cuts. But that’s not the only reason, the article says. An affinity for grilling is also motivating more pork sales.
Consumption of chicken and processed pork products like chorizo has stayed relatively flat in Argentina this year, the article points out. Fresh pork meat has been on the sharpest rise, contributing to an overall increase from about 19 lb. per person annually a decade ago to a projected 37 lb. in 2024.
Decades ago, Argentines had a less favorable perception of pigs and pork was considered too fatty and too tasteless, the article says. However, technological advances have helped Argentine pork producers produce pork more economically and better.
Daniel Fenoglio, president of the Argentine Porcine Federation, told the Post that consumption of pork really started to grow when the industry began renaming cuts of pork to match Argentines’ distinct denomination for parts of the cow.
Although pork isn’t expected to “dethrone beef as the most prized item on the grill,” it certainly is on an upswing.
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