Latin American appetites for beef are seemingly unabated by global health scares; a long tradition of consumption and vast fertile lands ideal for grazing have sustained Argentina and Uruguay at the top of world consumption levels (65 and 60.5 kg per capita, respectively), while Brazil (5.8 kg) is not too far behind.
Elsevier Food International, Vol. 7, Number 2, May 2004

Surpassing Brazil and Mexico, the US has the third highest per capita uptake; consumer confidence in food safety coupled with the popularity of low carbohydrates/high protein regimes (e.g. Atkins Diet) is fuelling demand. Consumption also remains strong in Australia.

Markedly different in Europe, UK uptake has yet to recover to pre-BSE (Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy) levels. The first German BSE case, identified in 2001, also triggered a downturn in beef consumption in Germany. Transitional issues - a reduced supply that is no longer subsidised, coupled with increased prices and a broader range of foods - have had a negative impact on beef consumption in much of Eastern Europe and Russia, with uptake slow to recover in Russia and still on a downward slide in Poland.

Beef consumption in Asia is modest, although higher than expected in India. Despite the large number of vegetarians and Hindus, beef is affordable and consumption is quite common among meat-eaters of all religions, although often eaten clandestinely.