Health and wellness continue to be top priorities for many consumers, propelled by the growing use of GLP-1 medications across the United States. While protein has been a hot topic throughout 2025, consumers are increasingly focused on how their food choices support their overall nutritional needs.

Recent peer-reviewed research reinforces pork’s nutritional value for consumers. A study at Texas A&M University, funded by the National Pork Board, compared how pork and plant-based protein affect recovery, mood and inflammation in military cadets following combat fitness testing. The study revealed that pork protein significantly reduced inflammation and accelerated recovery. The cadets in the study preferred the pork over the plant-based protein. These results suggest that pork can play a meaningful role in post-exercise recovery and overall wellness.

Similarly, a study conducted at the University of Illinois funded by the National Pork Board examined how muscle-building responses differ among high-protein animal foods in the context of weight training. Findings indicate that pork supports effective muscle growth comparable to other animal proteins, reinforcing its position as a versatile protein source for active consumers.

The study investigated the fat-to-protein ratio's impact on muscle protein synthesis (MPS), comparing high-fat and lean pork patties against a carbohydrate control. The study revealed something unexpected: lean pork produced a greater maximal MPS effect than high-fat pork. Still, both pork patties outperformed the carbohydrate control for MPS. This study reinforced that protein quality is the primary driver for muscle growth, regardless of fat content.

Both of these studies showcase protein quality, not quantity, is going to be essential for nutrition-focused consumers moving forward, especially in the context of intense exercise or muscle-building activities.

From a consumer and producer perspective, these studies offer actionable insight: Marketing pork’s nutritional benefits is grounded in evidence that resonates with health-conscious consumers. For producers, emphasizing pork’s role in wellness and recovery can help position the category against competing proteins, particularly in the growing market of fitness-focused and health-conscious shoppers.

Reinforcing the taste of pork

Taste remains a top driver for consumers. Pork companies are reinforcing high-quality pork with campaigns such as the National Pork Board’s “Taste What Pork Can Do”, Smithfield Foods’ “We Speak Pork”, and Prairie Fresh’s “Now That’s Pork”. These initiatives aim to increase awareness among Gen Z and millennial consumers, who historically have been less likely to consume pork than older generations.

Younger consumers are also looking for clean-label and “better-for-you” options. Patricia Bridges, senior director of marketing and communications for Coleman All Natural Meats, notes strong demand for pork, particularly as beef prices continue to rise. “Pork is a cost-effective and versatile protein option that consumers are continuing to consider as part of their weekly meal preparation and planning,” Bridges said. “Combined with familiar cuts, quick cook time, and robust flavor, pork provides the perfect balance of budget and nutrition for price-conscious consumers.”

Affordability and approachability

Ground pork and sausage are especially popular among home cooks, offering easy preparation and versatility for recipes ranging from tacos and soups to pasta dishes. Bridges also highlighted that consumers increasingly prefer case-ready pork, with the 2025 Power of Meat study showing that 87% of consumers find case-ready pork as good or better than meat cut in-store. “It helps with meal planning and portion control and allows consumers to get the freshest products available,” she said.

Bold, global and creative flavor trends continue to enhance pork’s appeal, giving consumers more ways to enjoy pork beyond traditional preparations and helping brands differentiate their products in a competitive marketplace.

Market outlook

Producers are navigating a tight but steady market. According to the Pork Checkoff, pork production in 2025 is expected to grow only modestly, constrained by a smaller breeding herd and incremental productivity gains. Fresh pork prices have lagged behind last year’s levels, though modest increases are expected through the spring and summer months. Retail cuts such as loins, butts and picnics remain competitively priced against beef and chicken, creating opportunities for features and promotions. Export demand is slightly recovering, particularly in Mexico, but overall sales remain below last year’s pace. For producers, this underscores the importance of promoting pork’s affordability, versatility and taste to maintain consumer engagement, even in a steady market.

By combining nutrition, taste, affordability, approachability, and flavor innovation, the pork category continues to meet evolving consumer priorities, offering producers and retailers opportunities to grow sales and strengthen consumer loyalty.