What’s summer without a hot dog or brat? These staples of the backyard party, baseball games or Fourth of July gatherings are more popular than ever — especially as Americans look forward to long-awaited family reunions.
“I think the future for sausage is bright,” says Anne-Marie Roerink, principal and founder of 210 Analytics, in San Antonio, Texas. “While every protein in the meat department will have a hard time lapping the results of 2020, demand continues to sit comfortably above the 2019 pre-pandemic normal. Add to that that Americans are ready for a re-do on all the missed celebrations, family and friends’ get-togethers and the massive investments made in all things grill and smoker, and I think we’re going to see a very strong barbecue season this summer.”