Meat is one of the most important food groups in the global food industry. It’s a crucial source of protein and the cornerstone ingredient in many dishes. That’s why the global meat market has constantly risen over the last decades. Florida is no different than other parts of America. Being one of the most populated metropolitan areas in the US, there’s a high demand for meat products in South Florida. That’s why there are multiple meat distributors in Miami. Some of them focus on distributing specific types of wholesale meat. Others aim to expand their eCommerce catalogs and sell a wide range of meat products, cold cuts, seafood, dairy, and other food categories. Below we’ll share some of the characteristics of the local meat sector and some of the well-known meat distributors in Miami. If you wish to find suppliers for your business, consider signing up for BlueCart. You can also check out our article on coffee roasters in Miami to learn more about some of the best wholesale coffee distributors in the region.
Key takeaway: The meat sector in Miami is influenced by Cuban and Caribbean cuisine. However, meat products like poultry and beef are still among the most popular ones.
The Meat Industry in Miami
Florida cuisine is a mixture of Latin American, Caribbean, and South American cuisine. It is a great example of what is called a fusion cuisine that combines elements of different cultures and styles. It’s often called Floribbean cuisine (combining Florida and the Caribbean). That’s why seafood is among the most common types of meat used in traditional dishes from this region. In the middle of the 20th century, Cuban refugees influenced the local cuisine significantly. Nowadays, Cuban sandwiches are one of the most popular Miami foods.
Popular Types of Meat Offered by Suppliers in Florida
Although Caribbean cuisine has influenced the cuisine and the restaurant industry in Florida, the types of meat that are consumed the most in the region are not so different from those in other parts of the US. Let’s examine them.
- Poultry. Chicken meat is the most popular type in America. Poultry products are common in Miami and other regions of Florida. Chicken is used in a variety of dish recipes while turkey meat is popular for cold cuts and used in sandwiches.
- Pork. A lot of dishes from Cuban cuisine use pork as the main ingredient.
- Beef. From steaks to burgers, beef is a beloved type of meat across America.
- Seafood. The large coastline of Florida is the reason why stone crabs, shrimp, and other seafood are popular.
- Lamb and goat. Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisines have made these products common in Miami.
- Alligator. Florida is the state where alligator meat is very popular. Restaurant managers successfully use it as part of their menus.
Meat Distributors in Miami
There are dozens of meat distributors in Miami. Some of them focus on the most common products such as chicken, pork, and beef products. Others also offer wholesale deli meats and less popular meat cuts like venison or other game meats.
Miami Beef
The company was established in 1972 but its history goes back to 1922. In addition to being one of the well-known meat distributors in Miami, the company also has meat processing facilities. Miami Beef also offers private labeling, vacuum packaging, and other services for business owners in different sectors. With production capabilities of over 100,000 pounds per 8-hour shift, companies can rely on Miami Beef for everything related to meat.
Known for: One of the leading meat manufacturing, processing, and distribution companies in the region.
Martinez Distributors
In addition to meat deliveries at wholesale prices, the company is known for its retail meat shops. Martinez Distributors has a couple of locations across the area where they sell a variety of meat cuts, different types of deli meat, dairy products, seafood, and other food categories. The company also operates a USDA-inspected food processing facility and offers private labeling services.
Known for: Their retail grocery stores and the wide variety of meat products they offer.
Miami Purveyors
With more than 60 years of history in this sector, Miami Purveyors is committed to responsible sourcing and no compromises in quality. As one of the premium meat distributors in Miami, they work with restaurants, hotels, country clubs, and various other food service businesses. They operate a meat processing facility and can offer wet and dry-aged meat cuts and vacuum-packaged meat products.
Known for: The variety of meat cuts they offer and their innovative and artisan approach in the sector.
Four Star Poultry & Provision
From smoked deli meats to seafood and popular meat products, the company is the reliable option for any business searching for meat distributors in Miami. Although they are primarily known for their meat products, Four Star Poultry & Provision also offers dairy goods such as cheeses, eggs, and butter.
Known for: Being a reliable supplier of high-quality meat, dairy, and seafood products since 1967.
Frequently Asked Questions about Meat Distributors in Miami
BlueCart’s team regularly shares useful information about the aspects of different niche markets. Whether you wish to know how to start a meat business or how to increase your wholesale sales, you can find tips on our website. Below we’ve answered some of the popular questions regarding meat distributors in Miami.
How to Choose a Meat Distributor in Miami?
When picking a meat supplier, businesses look for the quality of their products. That’s especially true in the high-end restaurants. Here are other factors to consider when evaluating wholesale meat distributors:
- Range of products. Businesses prefer to work with wholesalers who offer a wide diversity of meat products. Selling other categories like dairy or seafood can also tip the scale.
- Customer support. Businesses need reliable deliveries and flexible customer service.
- Price. Naturally, prices are an important factor when choosing meat distributors in Miami. Companies look for suppliers that offer their products at competitive prices without compromising quality.
What Other Distributors Sell Meat Products?
Meat is one of the main food groups. The role of meat in restaurants, grocery sales, and other sectors is crucial. That’s why meat distributors in Miami are not the only businesses that sell bulk meat products. Broadline food distributors also offer a variety of meat products and cold cuts. These suppliers aim to be the one-stop shop for restaurants and other companies. As such, they have diverse offerings in multiple categories. Some wholesalers focus on both seafood and meat. Others might prefer to source products from local farms and offer both meat and dairy products.
What Are the Meat Trends in Miami, FL?
Just like in other parts of the country, sustainability is one of the main trends in the local meat sector. As a growing number of people aim to reduce their ecological footprint, they often turn to vegan meat alternatives such as plant-based meat. The demand for organic meat products has increased in recent years as consumers often prefer to buy grass-fed meat products from local farms. Lab-grown meat products are another popular trend in the US. However, cultured meat is currently banned in Florida.
BlueCart: The All-in-One Tool for Meat Distribution Businesses
Multiple importers and suppliers of meat use BlueCart’s tools to increase their B2B sales and automate their wholesale ordering process. Our software can help you find new customers, increase sales, and save time. Schedule a free demo today and see for yourself why BlueCart is the right solution for meat wholesalers.