According to Global Trade Atlas, the United States (U.S.) imported over US$2.9 billion worth of beef and veal products from the world in 2010, almost US$1 billion of which was imported from Canada. The U.S.also imported almost US$1.3 billion worth of pork and pork products from the world in 2010, US$905 million of which was imported from Canada. According to Statistics Canada, C$201 million worth of chicken and turkey products were exported from Canada to the United States in 2010.
Despite declining consumption rates of beef and veal in the U.S., these meats remain large exports for Canada. Consumption of pork and pork products has declined slightly since 2005, but Canadian exports to the U.S. have increased from 2008 to 2010. Per capita consumption of poultry products in the U.S. also declined from 2005 to 2010, while exports from Canada to the U.S. have only marginally fluctuated between 2008 and 2010.
Consumers are rethinking their consumption of processed meat products due to health and wellness trends and the high price of beef. Manufacturers are introducing chilled and frozen products with less sodium and fewer artificial ingredients. Pork sausages, beef sausages and bacon are some of the most popular chilled processed meats in the U.S. However, manufacturers are introducing chicken and turkey varieties as "healthier" alternatives.
Flavouring trends have also evolved, as new sausage varieties contain flavours such as sun-dried tomato, basil and apple. Claims such as "convenient," "all-natural," and even "gluten-free" are very popular amongst new product introductions. Private label trends are also becoming more prominent among processed meat products. Private label products with premium claims, unique flavourings or product attributes can be found as consumers look for affordable ready-to-cook products, resembling entrées that they would typically order at a restaurant.
