The late timing of Easter this year is having an impact on meat sales.
Easter is considered the third-biggest meat holiday behind Christmas and Thanksgiving. The holiday is three weeks later than last year, which is impacting year-over-year data.
While dollar sales grew due to inflation, pounds purchased dropped by more than 4%. That was driven by processed meat declines, which include smoked ham.
While March was negatively impacted by the holiday’s late timing, April sales are expected to receive a boost.
Related Stories
Cattle markets are watching the Cattle-on-Feed Report for signs of tighter supplies, while USMEF warns limited China access is cutting producer profits.
Weather-driven transportation disruptions can tighten logistics, affect basis levels, and delay grain movement during winter months.
The Pet and Livestock Protection Act now moves to the Senate for consideration.