CoBank: Opportunities for Increasing Broiler Output Narrowing

Brian Earnest, an animal protein economist with CoBank, shares insights into current demand trends and the challenges facing broiler production.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — New challenges could limit the broiler industry’s ability to maintain recent production growth, even as consumer demand for chicken continues to rise. A new report from CoBank notes that while chicken demand has been on a decades-long upward trend, opportunities to increase output are becoming more constrained.

Brian Earnest, animal protein economist with CoBank, joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the findings.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Earnest outlined what has driven long-term growth in consumer demand for chicken and how the broiler industry has historically kept pace with that demand. He also addressed concerns about the obstacles the industry may face if demand continues to climb, particularly in expanding production.

Earnest also touched on whether value-added products, such as chicken strips and nuggets, will remain a key growth area for chicken sales going forward.

Related Stories
Tom McComas became involved with toy trains by accident and with reluctance. Now, he hosts “I Love Toy Trains,” where he invites viewers to enter the delightful and charming world of toy trains.
The success of American agriculture relies upon a robust transportation system.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RanchHERs Lyn & Sherrie Ray breed horses and raise cattle in New Mexico, while also helping to mentor the next generation of ag leaders
Today in Wyoming, Rural Media Group’s late founder, Patrick Gottsch, will be inducted into the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of Fame! The rodeo’s CEO, Tom Hirsing, joined us to share why Patrick is so deserving of this honor.
How one firm’s numbers compare to USDA data as farmers prepare for a massive corn and soybean harvest, and the significant issue brewing for beans if the U.S.'s longstanding bulk export to China falls through as they switch to offense on President Trump’s tariffs.
This Week in Louisiana Agriculture shows us why breaking even is going to be a challenge for corn producers across the state.
Raising crops requires hard work and dedication, and the same can be said for raising a child. In Virginia, a group of moms is leading the way in combining nurturing with farming.