LUBBOCK, TX (RFD NEWS) — Cattle and hog by-product values have climbed sharply, adding support to livestock markets beyond the value of meat cuts. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension economist David Anderson says cattle by-product values are at their highest level since January 2023, while hog by-products are at their highest since January 2024.
Cattle hide and offal values rose from $12.32 to $14.35 per hundredweight over the past two months. Anderson says prices for honeycomb tripe and liver have more than doubled since last year.
Reduced slaughter is part of the reason. Fewer cattle moving through packing plants means fewer hides, organs, and other by-products available. Exports are also helping, with first-quarter cattle variety meat export volume up 14.1 percent.
Hog by-product values are about 16 percent higher than a year ago. Lard, choice white grease, snouts, and other items have gained value.
Anderson explains that by-products are a bright spot in the livestock trade this year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Stronger by-product values can support cattle and hog returns, especially when export demand offsets tighter supplies.
Tony St. James RFD News Markets Specialist
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney says producers should continue to watch tariff negotiations, market access, and the possibility of a more transactional trade relationship with China.
ASFMRA’s Howard Halderman says several economic and policy issues are continuing to influence the farmland market.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to discuss spring planting progress and the outlook for trade and demand as the season continues.
USMCA review nears a critical stage as the U.S. and Mexico advance talks while Canada risks being left behind, raising concerns across North American agriculture trade.
While a ceasefire remains in place, overnight missile attacks are raising questions about its stability.
Washington growers say this year’s cherry crop may be smaller than last season but still strong enough to support promotions.
