A REEXAMINATION OF CONSUMER BUYING BEHAVIOR FOR BEEF, PORK, AND CHICKEN

The objective of this study is to estimate demand parameters for beef, pork, and chicken using budget share equations derived from the translog indirect form of the utility function for the period 1965-81. Estimates of uncompensated direct and cross price elasticities, expenditure and income elasticities, and Allen elasticities are the used to make inferences concerning changes in consumer behavior in the purchases of beef, pork, and chicken. When pressure on real income forces reductions in total expenditures for meats, the brunt of the reduced consumption will be felt by beef; pork consumption will decease slightly; and consumption of chicken may actually increase