The Economic Impact of the Meat and Poultry Processing Industry

A recent economic study by the Meat Institute reveals significant findings regarding the meat and poultry processing industry. The sector contributes a staggering $57.3 billion to the U.S. economy and supports nearly 584,000 jobs.

When considering the entire meat and poultry supply chain—including livestock production, animal feed, equipment manufacturing, and transportation—the industry’s contribution expands to $347.7 billion in value, underpinning over 3.2 million jobs.

Industry Significance

“The meat and poultry industry plays a crucial and expanding role in the U.S. economy, particularly in rural regions,” stated Julie Anna Potts, the president and CEO of the Meat Institute. “Our member companies are often the largest employers in their communities, and their influence extends well beyond job creation. They contribute through taxes, community investments, food donations, and enhancements to local infrastructure, including schools, housing, and childcare programs.”

Study Details

The economic contribution study was commissioned by the Meat Institute and conducted by Decision Innovation Solutions. The full analysis is accessible on the Meat Institute’s website, with data searchable by state and congressional district available here.

Direct Contributions to the National Economy in 2025

The study outlines direct contributions from the meat and poultry processing industry anticipated in 2025:

• $57.3 billion in industry value
• 584,000 jobs
• $40.6 billion in labor income
• $311.0 billion in total sales (output)
• $12.5 billion in local, state, and federal taxes

Total Economic Contribution

When indirect and induced effects are considered, the total economic impact of the U.S. meat and poultry processing industry escalates dramatically:

• $347.7 billion in total value
• 3.2 million jobs
• $205.3 billion in labor income
• $911.7 billion in total sales (output)
• $77.0 billion in taxes

These significant indirect and induced effects showcase the industry’s broad economic activity across sectors such as livestock production, animal feed manufacturing, grain and oilseed production, and transportation.

Regional Contributions

The report also offers insights into the economic contributions of the meat and poultry processing sector by state and congressional district. While the industry’s impact can be seen nationwide, specific regions benefit substantially more.

The top contributors include states like Texas, Nebraska, Iowa, Georgia, North Carolina, Kansas, California, and Arkansas. The key congressional districts comprise Nebraska-3, Iowa-4, Texas-13, Kansas-1, Minnesota-1, and Arkansas-3.

[RELATED: Meat Sales Hit Record $112B In 2025, Driven By Millennials, Gen Z]