NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Beef-on-dairy calves are commanding sharply higher prices than purebred dairy calves, reflecting strong demand from feedlots and tight feeder cattle supplies. Recent USDA-reported auction data from New Holland, Pennsylvania, shows 80–89 pound beef-cross dairy calves averaging $1,706 per head, compared to $1,329 for comparable dairy calves — a premium of about $377.
According to University of Tennessee Assistant Professor Charley Martinez, USDA market data shows this premium has widened significantly over time. From 2020 to 2024, beef-cross calves typically brought $130 to $200 more per head, with seasonal highs in late summer and early fall. In 2025, premiums climbed to roughly $450-$470 at their peak. Early 2026 data shows premiums already exceeding $400 per head, signaling even stronger relative demand.
That demand is being driven by feedlot preferences. Beef-on-dairy calves offer improved feed efficiency, growth rates, and carcass quality compared to traditional dairy calves. With no major increase in the U.S. beef cow herd yet, feeder cattle supplies remain tight, supporting higher prices.
Looking ahead, the direction of these premiums will depend on the expansion of the U.S. beef herd. A slow rebuild could keep beef-on-dairy calves competitive, while a faster increase in traditional beef supplies may narrow the price gap over time.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong feedlot demand keeps beef-on-dairy calf premiums elevated.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
As the strike at a JBS facility in Colorado continues, the National Right to Work Foundation is encouraging some employees to consider returning to work. The group says not all workers on strike may want to participate and urges those who choose to cross the picket line to resign from their union memberships.
March 19, 2026 01:49 PM
·
At the Port of Brownsville, shrimpers are facing rising operating costs and increased competition, but many shrimp producers and local lawmakers remain optimistic about the industry’s future.
March 19, 2026 01:22 PM
·
Higher prices are bringing relief to markets, but rising input costs are putting pressure on the producers.
March 19, 2026 12:59 PM
·
Governor Jim Pillen joined us to share the latest on the Nebraska wildfires, discuss relief efforts, and outline considerations for producers navigating the ongoing situation.
March 19, 2026 12:51 PM
·
Lower hop stocks may support prices in the near term.
March 19, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Bryan Combs with USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service breaks down new farmland data from the TOTAL survey, highlights key findings, and potential impacts for the ag sector. ASFMRA’s David Klein also shares how those trends are reflected in the current farmland market, especially in the Midwest.
March 18, 2026 04:55 PM
·
