Declining Beef and Lamb Consumption in Russia: An Analysis of Causes and Trends

According to Rosstat, from February 2022 to December 2025, the price of boneless beef increased by 58.5%, while that of lamb increased by 61.5%. By the end of last year, the average price of beef was 933 rubles per kilogram, while that of lamb was 676 rubles. These changes were driven by a variety of factors, including the VAT increase to 22% at the beginning of 2026, inflation, and exchange rate fluctuations.

Andrey Kucherov, Director of the Reksoft Consulting Competence Center for the Agro-Industrial Complex, notes that Russians , seeking to reduce their costs, are increasingly choosing more affordable meats, such as chicken and pork . Chicken sales increased by 4%, while demand for pork remained stable, indicating a shift in consumer preferences.

Economic uncertainty is forcing Russians to be more mindful of their food choices, leading to increased demand for affordable options. Switching to chicken and pork may not only be economically feasible but also reflects changing health perceptions and eating habits. Amid rising prices, producers can adapt by introducing new products and packaging, making meat more accessible to a wider audience. Monitoring this trend is important, as it could have a long-term impact on the country's meat market.