Dutch meat consumption fell again in 2025, researchers say

People in the Netherlands ate less meat in 2025 than in 2024, according to Wageningen University & Research (WUR) figures reported by Dutch news agency ANP. Researchers estimate that the amount eaten fell from about 37kg to about 34kg per person. A separate measure of total meat use, calculated by carcass weight and including bone, fell by 1.5kg to 67.3kg per person. [1]

Pork accounted for the most notable decline, the researchers said. Beef consumption dipped slightly, while chicken consumption rose slightly. WUR, which has tracked Dutch meat consumption since 2005, said the figures continued a decline seen over several years and a shift from red meat towards poultry. [1]

The researchers also adjusted data going back to 2018 after finding that pig-slaughter figures from the Dutch statistics office, CBS, were higher than those from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. They said the adjustment substantially lowered previously reported estimates for pork and total meat use. It is a revision to historical figures, not a fall that occurred entirely in 2025. [1]

Wakker Dier welcomed the decline as good news for animals and the climate. The group also said CBS had indicated that it would correct its data. [1]