3 Meat Stocks to Watch Amid Emerging Industry Opportunities

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The rising consumer demand for protein-rich products, driven by a growing emphasis on health and wellness, has created favorable conditions for the Zacks Food – Meat Products industry. Companies in this space have adapted to these trends by broadening their product portfolios, increasing production capacity and investing in plant-based meat alternatives.

Despite challenges, including higher input costs and increased operational expenses, Tyson Foods, Inc. TSN, Pilgrim's Pride Corporation PPC and Beyond Meat, Inc. BYND remain well-positioned for growth, supported by their strategic initiatives and ability to keep pace with shifting consumer preferences.

About the Industry

The Zacks Food – Meat Products industry comprises companies that manufacture, process, market, distribute and sell a wide range of meat products like chicken, pork, beef, prepared food and plant-based meats. Some companies also offer poultry and turkey products, alongside providing nutritional food products and supplements, desserts and drink mixes and industrial gelatin products. Most companies offer their products to retail and foodservice customers, while some cater to deli and commercial operators, including grocery retailers, grocery wholesalers, meat distributors, warehouse club stores, industrial food processing companies, chain restaurants, international export companies, school cafeterias and hospitals, among others. Some products offered include frozen whole chicken, primary pork cuts, salads, sandwiches and meatballs.

Major Trends Shaping the Future of the Meat Food Industry

Increasing Protein Demand & the Rise of Plant-Based Alternatives: The growing popularity of protein-rich diets is driving growth for meat companies, prompting them to continuously innovate their product lines. This trend is fueled by heightened health awareness, particularly among fitness enthusiasts adopting high-protein regimens such as the keto diet. At the same time, the demand for plant-based meat alternatives is gaining traction as consumers increasingly favor fresher, healthier options over traditional meat products. These alternatives are appreciated for their minimal use of artificial ingredients and additives, making them a more wholesome choice. Industry experts believe that plant-based protein could significantly disrupt the traditional meat industry, positioning itself as a formidable contender in the broader protein market.

Strategic Expansions: Companies in the meat industry are strengthening their market presence by diversifying product offerings and executing strategic growth initiatives, such as mergers, acquisitions and capacity expansions. To enhance production capabilities, many are investing in new facilities, upgrading existing plants and forming partnerships with co-manufacturers. Several companies are also investing in automation and advanced technology to accelerate digital transformation and streamline operations. Some companies are focusing on expanding into international markets, where they are seeing favorable outcomes and strong growth potential.

Rising Cost Challenges: Elevated input costs continue to pose significant challenges for meat producers. Escalating prices for feed, raw materials, transportation and labor have driven up production expenses. Persistent inflationary pressures, combined with higher operational costs, remain a headwind to maintaining healthy profit margins.