News  Agriculture  Livestock

AFBF Economist: Summer Grilling Season Expected to Keep Meat Demand Strong

American Farm Bureau economist Bernt Nelson says consumers are still buying meat despite ongoing price pressures.

May 21, 2026 02:56 PM • 
Neal Burnette-Irwin, David Nelson

WASHINGTON (RFD News) — Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer grilling season, bringing stronger seasonal demand for meat products across grocery stores and retailers.

American Farm Bureau economist Bernt Nelson joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest factors shaping meat demand and pricing this summer.

In his conversation with RFD News, Nelson discussed the outlook for consumer demand heading into peak grilling season and the major factors influencing prices for beef, pork and chicken.

The discussion also focused on ways consumers may be able to save money as many families continue managing tighter food budgets.

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Neal Burnette-Irwin
Neal Burnette-Irwin
Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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