From Carcass to Case: American Lamb Shines at the Power of Meat Conference

This week, the American Lamb Board (ALB) connected with professionals from across the retail meat industry at the 2026 Annual Meat Conference in Maryland. For U.S. sheep producers, ALB’s presence at this event is an important opportunity to engage with the retailers and lamb suppliers who ultimately influence how lamb is positioned, promoted and priced in the meat case.

ALB hosted a sponsored session titled “Lamb from Carcass to Case: Trends, Cuts and Consumer Connection,” which highlighted lamb as a premium yet underutilized protein with growing consumer demand. Presenters emphasized that younger generations are helping drive growth in lamb retail sales. Retail panelists also noted the increasing popularity of value cuts—such as ground lamb and stew meat—due to their accessibility and price points. The session demonstrated how culinary trends and consumer preferences can translate into effective in-store merchandising and stronger lamb sales.

“Events like the Annual Meat Conference allow us to sit down with the people who are shaping the future of the meat case,” said David Fisher, chairman of the American Lamb Board. “When retailers, packers and foodservice leaders understand the quality, consistency and story behind American Lamb, they’re better equipped to feature it in ways that reward both consumers and producers. That’s how we turn Checkoff dollars into long-term demand for U.S. lamb.”

The Annual Meat Conference brings together leaders from across the meat supply chain, including retailers, packers, processors, industry analysts and marketers. Presentations focus on consumer and market trends, merchandising and pricing strategies, innovation and product development, and supply chain realities. The conference traditionally opens with the latest Power of Meat study presentation, providing valuable insights into consumer purchasing habits and protein trends.  To receive a copy of the report, please email rae@americanlamb.com.

This year’s discussions highlighted growing consumer interest in protein and the opportunity for the meat industry to communicate the nutritional value of animal protein more effectively. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, addressed attendees about the new dietary guidelines that encourage consumers to reduce highly processed foods and increase protein intake, including red meats.