WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. cold storage inventories are sending mixed signals across livestock and food markets, with tighter red meat supplies but larger poultry and dairy movements.
USDA’s latest Cold Storage Report shows total red meat supplies down 5 percent from a year ago, including a 5 percent decline in both beef and pork stocks. Pork belly inventories were an exception, rising 5 percent month to month, though still below last year. Natural cheese stocks were slightly higher than January but down 1 percent year over year, while butter inventories jumped 12 percent from last month but remain 17 percent below a year ago.
Poultry inventories showed seasonal shifts. Total frozen poultry stocks were up 4 percent from January, though still down 5 percent year over year. Chicken stocks slipped slightly, while turkey inventories surged 19 percent month to month, reflecting typical post-holiday storage patterns.
Lower red meat inventories continue to support firm livestock prices, while increased poultry availability may add competition in protein markets.
Overall supply levels suggest tighter beef and pork availability alongside more balanced dairy and poultry stocks heading into spring demand.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Tight red meat supplies continue supporting livestock markets.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
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