WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — USDA’s latest Cold Storage report shows meat inventories remain tighter than a year ago, even as freezer supplies increased during April. Total red meat supplies were up 4 percent from March but down 4 percent from April 2025.
Beef stocks were up slightly from the previous month but still 3 percent below last year. That fits the broader cattle market picture, where tight cattle supplies and lower beef production continue to support prices.
Pork supplies increased 9 percent from March but remained 4 percent below a year ago. Pork belly stocks rose 15 percent for the month but were still 8 percent lower than last year.
Poultry inventories were steadier. Total frozen poultry supplies rose 4 percent from March and were slightly above last year. Chicken stocks were up 1 percent from both March and last year, while turkey rose 14 percent for the month but stayed 2 percent below April 2025.
Butter stocks increased from March but remained 9 percent below last year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Meat supplies are rebuilding seasonally, but beef and pork inventories remain tighter than last year.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney joins us to discuss geopolitical trade tensions, energy market volatility, and what global shifts could mean for U.S. agriculture exports.
New trade access, tariff concerns and international negotiations are reshaping the global beef market.
National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman joins us to discuss Prop 12 provisions in the House’s Farm Bill as it heads to the Senate for debate.
Officials say no additional spread has been detected as containment and monitoring efforts move forward.
U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper joins us to discuss the DOJ packer investigation, industry competition, and the outlook for cattle producers.
Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum says EPA’s final biofuel volumes keep corn demand steady and strengthen the outlook for soybean-based diesel feedstocks.
