The USDA made mostly modest adjustments to its 2026 U.S. red meat and poultry production outlooks.
Beef is now seen at 24.762 billion pounds, down 40 million from October on lighter dressed weights and slower marketings, with an average steer price of $236.31 per hundredweight, $1.25 lower, and significantly larger imports and minimal changes to exports and consumption.
Pork is projected at 27.656 billion pounds, up 35 million thanks to market ready supplies, with an average barrow and gilt price of $63.29 per hundredweight, $.50 less than last month, with reduced imports and exports against a slight rise in consumption.
Broilers are pegged at 49.475 billion pounds, a drop of 245 million due to slaughter and placement data, with an average price of $1.194 per pound, a half cent higher, and more exports and imports, but less consumption per person.
Turkey is estimated at 5.183 billion pounds, rising 49 million on heavier weights and more toms being slaughtered, with an average price of $1.77 per pound, a gain of $.015, and near steady trade and consumption.
Egg production is expected to be 9.171 billion dozen, an increase of 11 million because of a larger laying flock, with an average price of $.985 per dozen, $.05 lower, unchanged imports, and decreased exports and consumption.
The USDA’s next round of supply, demand, and production numbers is out December 10th.
