Decline in meat production and consumption in Estonia

In total, 75,600 tons of meat were produced in Estonia, including 39,800 tons of pork, 22,900 tons of poultry and 12,400 tons of beef. The decrease in meat production was 5%, with pork production decreasing by 10% and poultry production decreasing by only 1%. However, beef production increased by 3%.

In addition to the decrease in production, meat consumption also decreased. Last year, 100,600 tons of meat were consumed in Estonia, which was 3% less than the year before. Pork remains the most popular type of meat , with consumption amounting to 37.9 kg per person per year. Poultry consumption was 27.6 kg, beef 7.7 kg, and lamb and goat consumption was less than one kilogram per person per year.

The number of farm animals also decreased. According to Statistics Estonia, there were 241,000 heads of cattle , 275,000 pigs, 59,000 sheep and goats, and 2.2 million poultry in Estonia. The largest decrease was seen in sheep, which decreased by 13%.

The reasons for the decrease in meat production and consumption in Estonia may be varied. It may be related to changing consumer preferences, the growing popularity of alternative protein sources such as plant-based products or seafood, and the growing interest in vegetarianism and veganism. In addition, environmental and ethical aspects also play an important role in the decision to consume meat.

At the same time, the import of meat and products containing meat has increased slightly. Last year, 74,800 tons of meat were imported to Estonia. This indicates that consumers in the country still need meat, but prefer to purchase it from abroad.

Overall, the decline in meat production and consumption in Estonia reflects a general trend in the global food industry, where more and more people are paying attention to their eating habits and looking for alternative food sources. This may lead to changes in the agricultural sector and stimulate the development of new technologies and approaches to food production.