Broiler production struggled for much of the year to keep up with increased demand, especially the demand created by retail inflation and more substitution by consumers for chicken and cheaper cuts of red meat. The August WASDE projected an increase in production in Q4 of this year based on egg and chick placements. August, so far, has shown production catching up with demand, at least compared to last year. At the end of June, first half production was 101.4 percent of last year. In July, production was 101.3 percent of 2021. Weekly slaughter for the last three weeks in August is 102.5 percent of last year.
There is, however, some differences among the weight categories of birds. Lighter (food service) birds are...
What You Need to Know Today: Markets got a surprise with a corn yield of 181.2 bushels/acre in the October WASDE, above the average estimate of 177.6 bushels/acre and up from USDA’s September estimate of 178.5 bushels/acre. Although stronger demand is expected to absorb some of the addit...
Key Takeaways: On Friday afternoon, President Trump announced that Russia will “immediately supply over 300,000 Tons of Diesel Fuel” to the United States. The deal, typical of this administration, is light on details but promises an additional 500,000 tons in November and 1 m...
The USDA has lowered its 2026 red meat production forecasts slightly while forecasting a slight increase in broiler production. Beef is now projected at 24.802 billion pounds, 75 million pounds less than in September. Cow slaughter is expected to be up; however, this will be offset by lower ste...
