Despite difficult economic times, those in the U.S. are still consuming meat, although there has been a shift in the types of meat they purchase. A joint study by the American Meat Institute and the Food Marketing Institute shows overall spending on meat is about the same, but that consumers are trying to maximize protein per dollar.

As the economy continues to tighten, consumers appear to be “trading down” in their meat purchases; that is, basing purchase decisions on how much protein can be purchased for one dollar. While consumers are still buying meat, they are spending less and accepting meats perceived to be less desirable or lower quality.

Boxed beef prices have fallen from last year, but pork and chicken are still less expensive than beef, which is why consumers have been purchasing more of these types of meat. “The Power of Meat,” a joint study by the American Meat Institute and the Food Marketing Institute presents similar findings. Conducted in November 2009, this survey found that economics were affecting where people shop for meat as well as the cut, brand, and quantity purchased.

In particular, with respect to meat purchases, 51% of respondents say that have changed their purchasing habits:

• 71% read grocery fliers more often, looking for sales
• 69% stock up on meat when it is on sale
• 67% purchase less expensive cuts more frequently or every time they shop

Another way consumers say they save money is by cooking casseroles or pasta dishes more often to make the quantity go further.