Brazilian Poultry Industry: Where to Access Certified Brazilian Frozen Poultry Exporters
- May 25, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 16
The Brazilian poultry industry is a global powerhouse, renowned for its efficiency, scale, and quality. As the world’s largest poultry exporter of chicken meat and the second-largest producer after the United States, Brazil plays a critical role in global food security.
In 2024, Brazil produced 15.1 million metric tons (MMT) of chicken, exporting 4.97 MMT to over 150 countries, accounting for 35% of global chicken trade. This comprehensive guide explores why Brazilian poultry dominates the market, its production processes, key players, challenges, and opportunities, answering common questions like “Why is Brazilian chicken so cheap?” and “Is Brazilian poultry safe?”
Why Brazilian Poultry Leads the Global Market
Brazil’s dominance in the poultry industry stems from a combination of natural advantages, advanced technology, and strategic trade policies. Below, we dive into the factors that make Brazilian chicken a global leader.
Unmatched Export Dominance
Brazil is the largest exporter of chicken meat, shipping 4.97 MMT in 2024, with projections for a 100,000-ton increase in 2025. Key markets include China (13% of exports), the UAE (78.5% market share in 2022), Saudi Arabia, Japan, and South Africa. The devaluation of the Brazilian real has lowered export prices to approximately USD 1,500/ton, compared to USD 2,000/ton in the EU, making Brazilian poultry highly competitive.
Top Brazilian Poultry Export Markets (2024)
Efficient Production Systems
Brazil’s subtropical climate and vast soybean and corn fields enable cost-effective poultry farming. Approximately 70% of Brazilian poultry farming operates under the outgrower model, where small farmers partner with large processors like JBS and BRF. This model ensures scalability, quality control, and low production costs. Advanced genetics and automated processing plants further enhance efficiency, producing high-yield breeds with shorter growth cycles.
Sustainability and Quality Standards
Brazil’s poultry industry prioritizes sustainability through responsible waste management, renewable energy use, and water recycling. The country’s Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)-free status in commercial plants ensures safety and reliability. Brazilian chicken meets stringent global standards, including halal certifications for Middle Eastern markets and quality requirements for fast-food chains like McDonald’s.
Infographic Idea: Create a visual showing Brazil’s poultry production cycle, from hatchery to export.
Best Brazilian Poultry Exporters(companies)
The Brazilian poultry industry is driven by global giants and regional cooperatives. Below are the key brazilian poultry companies shaping the market:
JBS S.A.: The world’s largest meat processor, based in São Paulo, JBS produces factory-processed chicken, beef, and pork. It operates over 70 poultry plants in Brazil, leveraging automation for efficiency.
BRF S.A.: Known for brands like Sadia and Perdigão, BRF focuses on innovation, sustainability, and premium products for domestic and export markets.
Aurora Alimentos: A cooperative model supporting family farmers, Aurora emphasizes ethical practices and high-quality standards.
Seara Alimentos: A JBS subsidiary, Seara specializes in value-added poultry products like frozen nuggets and sausages.
Production Process: How Brazilian Poultry is Made
The Brazilian poultry production process is a model of efficiency and quality. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Hatchery: Chicks are bred using genetically improved strains for faster growth and disease resistance.
Grow-Out Phase: Birds are raised in climate-controlled barns, fed a diet of corn and soybean meal sourced locally.
Processing: Automated slaughterhouses ensure humane processing and compliance with international standards.
Packaging and Export: Chicken is packaged as whole birds, cuts, or processed products (e.g., nuggets) and shipped globally in refrigerated containers.
Challenges in the Brazilian Poultry Industry
Despite its strengths, the Brazilian poultry industry faces several challenges:
Disease Management
In 2024, Brazil reported its first commercial Newcastle disease outbreak since 2006 in Rio Grande do Sul. The Brazilian Poultry Association (ABPA) swiftly implemented containment measures, and the government negotiated regionalization clauses to protect exports. Brazil’s HPAI-free status remains intact, but vigilance is critical.
Economic Pressures
Rising input costs (5–20% increase in 2022) and global supply chain disruptions from COVID-19 reduced gross revenue margins from 218% in 2015 to 129.74% in 2022. The devalued real, while boosting exports, strains domestic profitability.
Environmental Concerns
Poultry farming’s environmental footprint, including water usage and waste, is under scrutiny. While Brazil has made strides in sustainability, further investment in eco-friendly technologies is needed.
Opportunities for Growth
The Brazilian poultry industry is poised for growth due to:
Rising Global Demand: Population growth and increasing incomes in Asia and Africa drive demand for affordable protein.
New Markets: Emerging markets like Mexico, Singapore, and India offer untapped potential.
Technological Innovation: Investments in automation, AI-driven monitoring, and blockchain for supply chain transparency enhance competitiveness.
Brazilian Poultry vs. Global Competitors
How does Brazil compare to other poultry giants like the United States and the EU?
Brazil vs. US vs. EU Poultry Industry (2023)
Brazil’s lower costs and HPAI-free status give it a competitive edge, though the US leads in production volume.
Keyword Focus: Brazilian poultry vs US, Brazilian chicken competitiveness.
Brazilian Poultry in Global Cuisine
Brazilian chicken is a staple in diverse cuisines, from Middle Eastern shawarma to Japanese yakitori. Its lean, high-protein profile makes it ideal for health-conscious diets. Below is a popular recipe:
Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff Recipe
Ingredients: 1 kg Brazilian chicken breast, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1 cup cream, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1 tbsp mustard, salt, pepper, olive oil.
Instructions:
Sauté diced onion and garlic in olive oil.
Add cubed chicken breast and cook until golden.
Stir in tomato sauce, mustard, and cream; simmer for 10 minutes.
Serve with rice and potato sticks for an authentic Brazilian touch.
Is Brazilian Chicken Safe and High-Quality?
Brazilian poultry is among the safest in the world, thanks to:
HPAI-Free Status: No commercial outbreaks of avian influenza.
Rigorous Inspections: Compliance with EU, US, and halal standards.
Traceability: Blockchain systems track poultry from farm to table.
Consumer concerns about antibiotics or hormones are unfounded, as Brazil bans hormone use in poultry and regulates antibiotics strictly.
Keyword Focus: Is Brazilian chicken safe, Brazilian poultry quality.
Why Is Brazilian Chicken So Cheap?
Brazilian chicken is price-competitive due to:
Low Production Costs: Abundant grain supplies and efficient farming models reduce costs.
Currency Advantage: The devalued Brazilian real lowers export prices.
Economies of Scale: Large processors like JBS and BRF operate at massive scale, reducing per-unit costs.
How to Source Brazilian Poultry
Businesses can source Brazilian poultry through:
Brazilian Poultry Association (ABPA): Connects buyers with certified exporters.
Apex-Brasil: Facilitates trade agreements and supplier matching.
Direct Contact: Reach out to JBS, BRF, or Aurora for bulk orders.
Ensure suppliers provide certifications (e.g., halal, ISO 22000) and verify export logistics for your market.
CTA: Get our free guide, “Sourcing Brazilian Poultry: A Step-by-Step Handbook,” for detailed tips.
Consumer Trends and Domestic Consumption
In Brazil, poultry is a dietary staple, with per capita consumption at 48 kg in 2024, compared to 58 kg in the US. Domestic demand drives 10.1 MMT of consumption, fueled by affordability and culinary versatility. Health-conscious Brazilians increasingly prefer lean cuts and organic options.
Sustainability in Brazilian Poultry Farming
Brazil is investing in sustainable poultry farming through:
Renewable Energy: Solar and biomass power 30% of poultry farms.
Waste Management: Converting poultry waste into biogas and fertilizers.
Water Recycling: Closed-loop systems reduce water usage by 40%.
These initiatives align with global demands for eco-friendly protein sources.
FAQs About Brazilian Poultry
What is the poultry industry in Brazil?
Brazil is the second-largest chicken producer and largest exporter, producing 15.1 MMT in 2024 and exporting 4.97 MMT to 150+ countries.
Which country is the largest producer of poultry?
The United States leads with 21 MMT, followed by Brazil (14.9 MMT in 2023).
Which company is the largest poultry producer in Brazil?
JBS S.A. is the largest, followed by BRF S.A. and Aurora Alimentos.
Does Brazil export chicken?
Yes, Brazil exports 4.97 MMT annually, making it the world’s top chicken exporter.
Is chicken from Brazil good?
Brazilian chicken is high-quality, safe, and meets global standards, including halal certifications.
Conclusion
The Brazilian poultry industry is a global leader, driven by efficient production, competitive pricing, and high-quality standards. Despite challenges like disease outbreaks and environmental concerns, Brazil’s investments in technology and sustainability ensure continued growth. Whether you’re a consumer, business, or investor, understanding Brazilian poultry offers insights into a vital global industry. Need weekly updates about the market? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on the Brazilian poultry industry and global agribusiness trends.
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