Demand for American cheese is increasing.
That’s according to the latest USDA Cold Storage Report. American cheese inventory fell by more than 4,000,000 pounds from December, indicating some support for the current market. Usually, inventories increase in the last half of the year due to seasonality. However, Ag Dairy’s Branch Manager says we’re seeing buyers buy aggressively, and that’s why we’re up to almost $2 per pound.
“So that report gives some hope that these prices could still hold for the year, but a lot of things could change. We do start growing inventory at the beginning of the year, but seeing a decline from December to January is very positive.”
The January report also showed Swiss cheese inventories are 10% higher than this time last year.
Smaller cow numbers and a declining calf crop point to prolonged tight cattle supplies, limiting near-term herd rebuilding potential.
January 30, 2026 03:42 PM
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The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.
January 30, 2026 12:51 PM
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Record milk output looks strong today, but shrinking replacement numbers mean future supply adjustments could be faster and more volatile.
January 30, 2026 11:44 AM
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AFBF Economist Danny Munch shares a closer look at the dairy market and the forces impacting producers today.
January 29, 2026 02:52 PM
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UT Extension also offers tips to help consumers stretch their grocery budgets, including meal planning, sticking to a shopping list, and choosing store or generic brands.
January 29, 2026 01:13 PM
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Early indications suggest the U.S. cattle industry may be nearing the end of its liquidation phase. Oklahoma State University livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel says the industry could be at or near the cyclical low.
January 29, 2026 12:44 PM
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