Knowing the ever-evolving tastes of today’s BBQ lover helps build more BBQ business.

While consumers' tastes may change, one thing hasn't, and that's that BBQ pork is always high on most people's lists of food favorites. An astounding 96% of people say they enjoy it either occasionally or frequently.1 But while BBQ is a menu staple, Smithfield has recognized some significant trends in BBQ that every operator should know to keep their competitive edge, and can deliver the extensive line of products for your every BBQ need.

Let the extensive line of fine Smithfield pork products help you satisfy today's BBQ lovers. For additional product information, complete our contact form, or call a sales representative at 888-327-6526.

The Flavor Trends

Classic BBQ Flavors

Consumers are trending toward dry over liquid preparations to enhance pork’s natural flavor, with 61% of them finding dry seasonings appealing.1

Consumers prefer smoky-flavored pork items, with 60% indicating they would at least occasionally order smoky pork. Other preferred flavors include sweet and hickory.2

60% of female pork lovers would consider ordering sweet-flavored BBQ.3

Males prefer hickory (63%), smoky (57%) and chipotle (33%) flavorings.4

Nontraditional BBQ Flavors

Find out more about BBQ flavors specific to different regions of the U.S. and the world!

The Pork Cuts

The Pork Cuts

When it comes to BBQ, pork is in demand, with 51% of pork consumers wanting to see more restaurants offer BBQ pork dishes. The following indicates the top pork cuts ordered at least occasionally by consumers9:
PorkCutsPorkCutsLegend

Daypart Preferences

Lunch

Smoked, grilled and barbecued lead the way for lunchtime pork preparation preference.10

Dinner

Consumers tend toward hearty pork dishes as their dinner preferences.11


68% barbecued pork

62% pork ribs

60% pulled pork

1-11 Technomic 2017 Center of the Plate Report