Less meat on the table due to increased prices

Greek consumers are significantly cutting back on meat consumption as rising prices strain household budgets. A survey indicates that 45% of citizens reported reducing their meat intake in 2026, a notable increase from 36% in the previous year. This trend highlights the growing impact of inflation on dietary habits across the country.

The price of beef has been a major contributor to this shift, with an annual increase of 19.2% according to data from ELSTAT. This sustained price hike is further burdening consumers and forcing many to reconsider their food purchases. The upward trajectory of beef prices has been consistent over the last decade.

Prices for beef have escalated from approximately 10–12 euros per kilogram in 2016 to between 14–15 euros during 2020–2021. By 2023, prices had risen to 15.50–17 euros per kilogram, and current estimates for 2026 place them between 20 and 25 euros per kilogram. This dramatic increase over ten years makes beef increasingly unaffordable for many Greek families.

While beef prices have seen the most significant rise, other types of meat have also experienced price adjustments. Pork is currently priced between 5 and 9 euros per kilogram, lamb and goat range from 12 to 16 euros per kilogram, and chicken is available from 4.50 to 7 euros per kilogram. Despite these variations, the overall trend points to reduced meat consumption driven by economic pressures.