14 chicken consumption trends to plan for in 2026

Seven in 10 consumers now shop for groceries online or via mobile app, with more than a third of consumers younger than 42 doing so weekly. The barriers to online fresh chicken purchases, such as concerns about safety in transit and delivery costs, are gradually shrinking.
During the 2025 Chicken Marketing Summit, industry experts presented the latest data and insights to help the chicken industry and poultry buyers prepare for the future chicken consumer. Here are the highlights:
1. 8 tech trends shaping future chicken consumption (blog)
Eizabeth Doughman: The technologies of today could change how the chicken industry engages with the consumer of tomorrow.
2. Digital-first consumers reshape chicken consumption
Younger shoppers prioritize digital tools, online grocery access and responsible sourcing.
3. Chicken foodservice growth fueled by limited time offers
LTO growth is surpassing the number of new core items as menus rebuild.