Canadians eating less meat

A September report from the Conference Board of Canada indicates that meat consumption in Canada has been on the decline since 1999.

According to the report, pork consumption per person has fallen 31 per cent since 1999, while beef consumption has fallen by 19 per cent. Chicken consumption, however, has risen by 11 per cent in the same period.

The Conference Board cited several reasons for the decline in pork and beef consumption. The aging population’s concern for health issues is leading them to turn away from red meat, while a growing number of Canadian immigrants follow religions that limit meat consumption. Cost is also a factor, as higher prices for pork and beef may cause people to buy it less often.