LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD News) — Choice boxed beef values are beginning to recover after a prolonged summer decline, potentially providing additional support for cattle prices. Texas A&M livestock economist David Anderson says the Choice cutout gained nearly $4 per hundredweight last week after falling steadily since late June.
The Choice cutout peaked at $396.53 for the week ending June 23 before declining more than $33 to $362.81 by early August. Fed cattle prices followed a similar pattern, with both markets losing roughly 12 percent before recently rebounding.
Several beef primals are now strengthening. Rib values climbed from $548 to $587 per hundredweight over two weeks, while loin, round and brisket prices also increased. Declines in chuck, plate and flank values have slowed.
Wholesale beef prices often weaken after peak summer grilling demand passes. This year, however, beef production remains below 2025 levels, limiting supplies available to consumers and retailers.
Anderson expects tighter beef supplies to support additional wholesale gains. Rising cutout values could strengthen fed cattle, feeder cattle and calf prices heading toward Labor Day and early fall demand.
