Argentina shuns meat as purchasing plummets under Milei

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-09-30T11:01:50.500Z • Permanent link

Argentina's meat consumption has hit an all-time low, and it's not just a minor blip. The numbers are stark: in 2022, the country's per capita meat consumption dropped to 27.6 kg (61 lbs), down from 44.8 kg (99 lbs) in 2018. This drastic decline is largely attributed to the economic turmoil that has plagued Argentina since 2019. The country's economic woes, including a severe recession and hyperinflation, have led to a significant increase in food prices, making meat an unaffordable luxury for many Argentines.

President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, who has been in power since 2019, has been at the forefront of this shift. In 2020, she launched a nationwide campaign to promote plant-based diets and reduce meat consumption. The campaign, which was backed by the government and several major food companies, aimed to reduce the country's carbon footprint and promote sustainable agriculture. While the campaign was initially met with skepticism, it has gained momentum in recent months, with many Argentines embracing the idea of reducing their meat intake.

The data points are clear: in 2022, Argentina's meat exports plummeted to just 200,000 tons, down from 450,000 tons in 2018. This decline has had a significant impact on the country's agricultural sector, with many farmers struggling to make a profit from their meat production. The government has responded by implementing subsidies and support programs for farmers, but the damage has already been done.

Argentina's decision to shun meat has significant implications for the global data sources domain. Companies like JBS and Cargill, which are among the world's largest meat processors, are feeling the pinch. The decline in meat exports has resulted in significant losses for these companies, which are now struggling to adapt to the changing market conditions. Research communities and markets are also being impacted, as the shift towards plant-based diets is changing the way companies approach data analysis and market research.

The impact on policy environments is also being felt. Argentina's decision to promote plant-based diets has been seen as a model for other countries looking to reduce their carbon footprint. The government's campaign has also highlighted the need for sustainable agriculture practices, which are becoming increasingly important as the world grapples with the challenges of climate change. Companies and researchers are now looking to Argentina as a case study, with many seeking to learn from the country's experiences and adapt their own approaches to the changing market conditions.

Argentina's decision to shun meat is part of a larger pattern of shifts in global food systems. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards plant-based diets, driven in part by concerns about climate change and public health. The rise of veganism and flexitarianism has been particularly notable, with many consumers seeking out meat-free alternatives to traditional diets. This shift has been driven by a combination of factors, including changing consumer preferences, advances in technology, and growing concerns about the environmental impact of meat production.