National Deli Meat Month
Observed
the month of March (since 2018)
Dates
March 1st, 2024 to March 31st, 2024
March 1st, 2025 to March 31st, 2025
March 1st, 2026 to March 31st, 2026
March 1st, 2027 to March 31st, 2027
March 1st, 2028 to March 31st, 2028
Founded by
National Pork Board in 2018
North American Meat Institute (NAMI) in 2018
Tags
Food & Drink
Hashtags
Sources
National Deli Meat Month takes place throughout March and celebrates deli meats, including pre-sliced ham, beef, bologna, salami, and pepperoni. The month also encourages consumers to learn more about the variety of products available and their nutritional information.
Beginning in 2018, the observance has been a joint educational program of the North American Meat Institute (NAMI) and the National Pork Board. Its goal is to provide educational and promotional materials for consumers, health professionals, retailers, and manufacturers while encouraging people to enjoy deli meat. Resources have included infographics, fact sheets, product information, and a nutrition center for comparing available choices, including low- or reduced-sodium, low- or reduced-fat, organic, grass-fed, American Heart Association-certified, and Kosher products. A 2021 announcement from NAMI noted that the program coincides with National Nutrition Month each March.
Past observances have promoted ways to use deli meats beyond traditional lunch and sandwiches. In 2021, NAMI and the National Pork Board partnered with The Food Renegades on a TikTok-based Deli Dinner Showdown, in which chefs and nutrition influencers created dinner recipes featuring beef and pork deli meats. The Meat Institute also highlighted facts and recipes online during March.
How to Observe National Deli Meat Month
Celebrate by enjoying your favorite deli meat or trying a variety you have not had before. Make a meal that uses deli meat beyond a standard sandwich, and compare product information at the deli counter or on its packaging. You can also learn about the nutritional information and options available, such as low- or reduced-sodium and low- or reduced-fat products.


