United Kingdom Meat Snacks Market Overview, 2030

Meat snacks refer to processed and preserved meat products designed for quick consumption, often in dried, cured, or smoked forms. As busy lifestyles dominate the UK, consumers are increasingly looking for portable food options that can be easily consumed on-the-go, whether during work breaks, commutes, or outdoor activities. Meat snacks like jerky, biltong, and meat sticks are easy to carry, require no preparation, and can be consumed without the need for refrigeration, making them a popular snack option for consumers on the move. Meat snacks, which are rich in protein, help satisfy hunger while offering a filling, energy-boosting option compared to traditional snack foods like crisps or biscuits. In the UK, there is a marked shift toward clean-label products, which refer to food items that contain only simple, recognizable ingredients and are free from artificial additives, preservatives, or colorings. With increasing concerns about environmental impact and ethical sourcing, consumers are seeking meat snacks that are responsibly produced. Brands are responding by promoting sustainable sourcing practices, such as using grass-fed, free-range, or organic meats. Online marketplaces like Amazon, Ocado, and specialized online snack retailers have made it easier for consumers to access a wide range of meat snacks, contributing to the rapid growth of the category.

According to the research report ""United Kingdom Meat Snacks Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the United Kingdom Meat Snacks market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 1.13 Billion by 2030. The UK meat snacks market is experiencing significant growth due to changing consumer preferences and lifestyle shifts. Primary driver is the increasing demand for on-the-go convenience, as busy professionals and fitness enthusiasts look for portable, protein-rich snacks. The rising health-conscious trend has also contributed to the popularity of meat snacks, particularly among consumers following high-protein diets such as keto, paleo, and low-carb regimens. Even if it’s growing, the UK meat snacks industry faces several challenges. Health concerns remain a critical issue, as consumers become more aware of the potential risks of processed meat, including high sodium levels, preservatives, and links to certain health conditions. This has led some consumers to shift towards plant-based or minimally processed alternatives. Another significant barrier is price sensitivity, as premium meat snacks tend to be more expensive compared to traditional snack options, limiting their appeal among cost-conscious buyers. Sustainability and ethical concerns also play a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior, with increasing scrutiny over the carbon footprint of meat production, deforestation linked to cattle farming, and animal welfare practices. Companies are now under pressure to provide transparent sourcing and eco-friendly practices to maintain consumer trust. As flexitarian and vegan diets gain traction, many brands are developing innovative meat-free snacks using ingredients like pea protein, mushroom-based jerky and soy-based substitutes to cater to a wider audience. Another significant trend is flavor innovation, with brands experimenting with bold and global flavors such as Korean BBQ, truffle-infused varieties, and peri-peri spice blends to attract adventurous consumers. The demand for premium and gourmet meat snacks is rising, with an emphasis on high-quality cuts, organic certifications, and unique preparation techniques, catering to consumers looking for indulgent yet nutritious snacking options.

The UK meat snacks market offers a variety of product types catering to different consumer preferences, from high-protein fitness enthusiasts to gourmet snack lovers. One of the most popular categories is jerky, which includes dried, marinated meat slices known for their long shelf life and portability. Typically made from beef, turkey, or even exotic meats, jerky is favored for its high-protein, low-fat content, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Another well-established category is sticks & strips, which include meat sticks and thinly sliced dried meat. These snacks are convenient and often come in individually wrapped portions, making them ideal for on-the-go consumption. They are usually seasoned with a variety of spices, catering to both mild and spicy flavor preferences. Sausages particularly cured and dried varieties are also a significant segment. Traditional pork-based sausages remain a staple, but newer offerings include chicken, turkey, and plant-based options, appealing to consumers looking for healthier or alternative protein sources. Meat bars are an emerging category, blending high-quality meats with ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create a nutrient-dense, protein-packed snack. These bars are particularly popular among fitness enthusiasts and those seeking meal replacement options. Others category includes an innovative range of products such as chunks, bites, chips, flakes, broths, and pâtés, which cater to consumers looking for diverse textures and flavors. These products often serve as high-protein alternatives to traditional snacks or cooking ingredients, adding versatility to the meat snacks market.
Beef is the most dominant source, widely used in jerky, sticks, and bars due to its rich flavor, high protein content, and popularity among fitness-conscious consumers. Grass-fed and organic beef options are gaining traction, particularly among those seeking premium, ethically sourced products. Pork is another significant category, commonly found in sausages and cured meat snacks. British consumers enjoy pork-based snacks for their rich taste and affordability. Growing concerns over sustainability and health-related issues, such as high fat and sodium content, have led some consumers to seek leaner alternatives like poultry. Poultry-based snacks, particularly chicken and turkey, have gained popularity as healthier, low-fat alternatives to beef and pork. These snacks appeal to health-conscious and weight-conscious consumers who seek lean protein without compromising on taste. Poultry-based snacks often cater to religious dietary restrictions, making them accessible to a wider audience. Lamb and goat meat snacks remain a niche but growing segment, particularly among consumers looking for premium and gourmet options. British lamb, known for its high quality, appeals to those who enjoy richer flavors. Goat meat, though less common, is gaining interest due to its lean profile and sustainability advantages. Others category includes seafood-based snacks (such as salmon jerky) and exotic meats like venison, bison, and wild boar. These options cater to adventurous consumers looking for unique flavors and healthier, high-protein alternatives. With sustainability concerns rising, seafood snacks are also gaining popularity as an eco-friendly protein source.

Hypermarkets and supermarkets dominate sales, offering a wide range of meat snack options, from budget-friendly to premium products. Large retail chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and ASDA provide a convenient shopping experience where consumers can compare brands, flavors, and pricing in one place. Promotions and discounts in these stores also influence purchasing decisions, making them a key driver of market growth. Convenience stores and grocery stores play a crucial role in impulse purchases. Consumers often pick up meat snacks on the go from shops like Co-op, Londis, and SPAR. These locations stock single-serving packs, catering to busy professionals, travellers, and students looking for quick, high-protein snack options. Their strategic placement near workplaces, transport hubs, and residential areas makes them a key channel for everyday snacking. Specialty stores, including organic food stores, butcher shops, and gourmet retailers, attract health-conscious and premium-seeking consumers. These outlets focus on high-quality, ethically sourced meat snacks, such as grass-fed beef jerky, artisan sausages, and exotic meat options. With rising demand for premium and gourmet snacks, specialty stores are becoming an important niche segment. Online retailers have seen significant growth, with platforms like Amazon, Ocado, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand websites offering a vast selection of meat snacks. Subscription snack boxes and bulk purchasing options drive sales in this channel, especially among consumers looking for unique or international products. Others category includes quick-service restaurants (QSRs), airports, and travel retail. Meat snacks are increasingly found in vending machines, petrol stations, and airport shops, catering to travelers seeking protein-rich, on-the-go snacks. This channel is expected to grow as travel and mobility increase post-pandemic.


Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Meat Snacks Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Jerky
• Sticks & Strips
• Sausages
• Bars
• Others (Chunks, Bites, Chips, Flakes, Broths, Pâtés)

By Source
• Beef
• Pork
• Poultry
• Lamb & Goat
• Others(Salmon & Other Seafood, Exotic Meats (Venison, Bison, Others)

By Sales Channel
• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores & Grocery Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Retailers
• Others(Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), Airport & Travel Retail)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.