Croatians are the world’s biggest pork eaters, data reveals

Kotlovina

Croatia has emerged as the world’s leading consumer of pork, according to global data from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

Recent data published by Visual Capitalist highlights that Croatians consume 57.4 kilograms of pork per person each year, placing the country firmly at the top of the global rankings for per-capita pork consumption.

From Slavonia’s unmistakable smoky kulen to the beloved crackling of a perfectly roasted pork, the nation’s culinary traditions reveal a long-standing affection for this meat.

While pork accounts for around 34% of total meat intake globally, in Croatia it is unmistakably the star of the table.

Croatia’s lead is a narrow but decisive one. Spain follows in second place with 56.5 kg, while Montenegro (53.5 kg), Hong Kong (52.6 kg) and Poland (51.6 kg) round out the top five.

Each of these countries may have their own pork traditions, but none quite match the Croatian appetite.

Other nations shine in different categories. Argentina tops the world in beef consumption, averaging 46 kg per person annually, reflecting its famed Asado culture.

In the realm of poultry, St. Vincent and the Grenadines leads with a remarkable 94.1 kg per capita. Meanwhile, Mongolia holds the global title for goat and lamb consumption with 68.5 kg per person each year.

For Croatia, however, pork remains king.