In a significant shift in French culinary preferences, chicken has officially become the most consumed meat in France, surpassing pork for the first time in 2024. According to data from Anvol, the French interprofessional organization for the poultry industry, the French population consumed 31.6 kilograms of poultry meat per person—primarily chicken—compared to 31 kilograms of pork and charcuterie.
This change marks a 10% year-on-year increase in poultry consumption and a 15% rise since 2019. The surge is attributed to several factors: chicken remains affordable, versatile, and easy to prepare, making it a staple in both home kitchens and restaurants across the country. Traditional dishes like Poulet Rôti, Coq au Vin, and Chicken Cordon Bleu continue to be favorites, while modern recipes and health-conscious diets have further boosted chicken’s appeal.
The rise in chicken consumption is also seen as a recovery for the poultry sector, which had suffered in recent years due to avian influenza outbreaks. Thanks to a successful vaccination campaign, the industry has regained some ground. However, national production still lags behind demand, leading to a growing reliance on imports. Nearly half of all chicken consumed in France is imported, with Poland, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands being the primary suppliers.
This dependency has raised concerns among French producers and policymakers. Anvol warns that the trade deficit in poultry products has reached €1.25 billion. The organization is calling for a national effort to boost domestic production, including the construction of 400 new poultry sheds—one in each of France’s 99 departments.
Anvol also urges the government to enforce stricter labeling laws, requiring all food establishments to disclose the origin of their chicken. This would empower consumers to choose French-raised poultry and support local farmers. Additionally, the organization advocates for a halt to imports from countries that do not meet France’s high animal welfare and production standards.
As chicken takes the lead in French diets, the shift reflects broader trends in consumer behavior—favoring healthier, more sustainable, and ethically produced food. Whether this momentum can be sustained will depend on the ability of the French poultry industry to scale up responsibly and meet the growing demand.
Sources: Available upon request