What is the world's most widely consumed type of meat?

The world's most widely consumed type of meat is pork. According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, pork accounts for nearly 36% of the world's meat consumption, followed by poultry at around 35% and beef at approximately 22%. These three types of meat make up the vast majority of global meat consumption, with other meats like mutton, goat, and game accounting for the remaining percentage.

Pork's popularity as the most consumed meat is largely driven by its widespread consumption in Asia, particularly in China, which is the world's largest producer and consumer of pork. In many Asian countries, pork is a staple protein source and is used in a variety of dishes, such as dumplings, stir-fries, and soups. In other parts of the world, such as Europe and the Americas, pork is also consumed, but poultry and beef may be more popular depending on regional preferences and cultural factors.

It is important to note that meat consumption patterns can vary greatly between countries and regions due to factors such as cultural and religious beliefs, dietary preferences, and availability of resources. For example, in countries with a predominantly Muslim population, pork consumption is generally low or nonexistent due to religious dietary restrictions. Similarly, vegetarian and vegan diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, leading to a reduction in meat consumption in some areas.