Animal products comprise a significant part of the human diet in the U.S.A. and Canada. Although substantial quantities of grain are fed to ruminants, roughages comprise 80% of the feed supply for these animals. Consumers are health-conscious and have expressed concern regarding animal products, especially in regard to cholesterol and unsaturated fats in some products. It is predicted that animal products will continue to be important in the human diet. Total per capita meat consumption will likely remain relatively constant. However, a further decrease in consumption of red meat and a concomitant increase in consumption of poultry meat will occur. Modest declines in per capita consumption of eggs and dairy products will continue. A decrease in fat content of meat will occur, resulting in part, from lower amounts of grain fed. Increases in efficiency of producing animal products will ocur, due to use of new technology and optimizing use of resources.