Chicken remains Mexico’s top protein as demand climbs
Consumption projected to rise 3% through 2026 on affordability
29 October 2025
1 minute read
By: Mexico’s appetite for chicken continues to grow, with consumption forecast to rise 3% in both 2025 and 2026, according to the latest USDA-FAS outlook.
Strong demand across households, restaurants, and the hospitality sector is expected to push chicken meat consumption to 5.2 million metric tons (MMT) in 2025 and 5.3 MMT in 2026.
The steady increase reflects chicken’s enduring role as Mexico’s most affordable and accessible source of protein. As beef and pork prices remain high, consumers facing economic pressures are turning to chicken as a reliable, cost-effective alternative.
2025: Affordability drives steady growth
In 2025, chicken consumption is projected to grow 3% to 5.2 MMT, marking another year of solid expansion. Chicken’s price advantage continues to anchor its popularity, especially as families and restaurants look to stretch food budgets.
Population growth and urbanisation are also driving consumption. Mexico’s population surpassed 130 million in 2024 and is expected to reach nearly 132 million in 2025, creating a larger base of consumers. Demand from the hotel, restaurant, and institutional (HRI) sector remains strong, supported by both domestic diners and millions of tourists visiting Mexico each year.
Chicken remains a staple across Mexican cuisine, with nearly 80% of consumers purchasing whole birds rather than retail cuts. Whole chickens are cheaper per kilogram than fillets or thighs, making them a consistent choice even amid modest price increases.
2026: Industry expansion supports rising demand
Looking ahead to 2026, chicken meat consumption is forecast to rise another three percent to 5.3 MMT. Industry growth will be supported by large-scale investments and product innovation. Producers such as Pilgrim’s Mexico are expanding operations with new facilities in Veracruz and Mérida to improve efficiency and meet growing domestic demand.
New product lines are also emerging, with companies developing chicken-based options that mimic cuts from other animal proteins, such as chicken chorizo, to attract diverse consumers.
Chicken is expected to maintain its edge as the most economical protein option, particularly as beef and pork prices stay elevated. Meanwhile, the Presidential Anti-Inflation Decree, which extends duty-free imports of chicken and other staples until the end of 2025, is helping to stabilise prices and sustain affordability.
With its versatility, cultural significance, and value, chicken remains at the heart of Mexico’s diet — and its popularity shows no signs of slowing.
