biostudies-literatureUnknown7(2)Collier SMBeef, pork and broiler producers face complexities in prioritizing sustainability actions. We use Q methodology to explore diverging patterns in how US producers approach sustainability priorities, even among same-species and same-scale operations, with emphasis on animal well-being and environmental stewardship. Three distinct worldviews emerged: one prioritizing animal welfare, another emphasizing holistic environmental stewardship, and a third focused on balancing business viability with other concerns. Our findings can inform strategies for aligning producer actions and consumer expectations for sustainable meat production.Nature food132-137https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC12935542biostudies-literatureDistinct worldviews determine how meat producers navigate competing sustainability priorities in the United States.PMC12935542Schmitt JCollier SMOtten JJJanzing NFudge MIsmach ARivera-Gonzalez JAbraham ESpiker MLfalseDistinct worldviews determine how meat producers navigate competing sustainability priorities in the United States.Beef, pork and broiler producers face complexities in prioritizing sustainability actions. We use Q methodology to explore diverging patterns in how US producers approach sustainability priorities, even among same-species and same-scale operations, with emphasis on animal well-being and environmental stewardship. Three distinct worldviews emerged: one prioritizing animal welfare, another emphasizing holistic environmental stewardship, and a third focused on balancing business viability with other concerns. Our findings can inform strategies for aligning producer actions and consumer expectations for sustainable meat production.2026-01-01T00:00:00Z2026 Feb2026-07-16T21:58:58.418Z2026-07-11T03:09:08.602ZS-EPMC129355424174175410.1038/s43016-026-01300-9