Colombia sees rising protein consumption and regional food security initiatives

Reports indicate an increase in animal protein consumption in Colombian households during the administration of President Gustavo Petro. Data from sources such as Bancolombia, FEDEGÁN, and Porkcolombia show rising consumption levels for beef, chicken, and pork through 2025, particularly benefiting lower-income families.

In the department of Antioquia, the regional government has launched the ‘Renta Alimentaria’ program to combat extreme poverty and food insecurity. The initiative provides monthly transfers of 225,000 pesos to individuals aged 5 to 59 with certified disabilities living in extreme poverty. The program has already begun payments to over 1,300 beneficiaries across 118 municipalities, with a goal of reaching 5,000 beneficiaries by the end of the year. This regional effort follows a reported decrease in moderate or severe food insecurity in Antioquia from 27.9% in 2024 to 20.1% in 2025.