Business  Markets

By-Product Values Boost Cattle Hog Market Returns Higher

Reduced slaughter numbers and stronger export demand are helping push livestock by-product values higher.

May 30, 2026 12:00 PM • 
Tony St. James
Three pigs grazing in a grassy valley with a mountain range in the background.

Photo by Sergio

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
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Tony St. James
Tony St. James
Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

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