NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV)— U.S. dairy markets are under pressure as butter and cheese prices both declined this week, according to USDA and CME data.
Butter fell to its lowest level since November 2021 on sharply higher supply, while cheese markets also slid, with analysts noting exports remain competitive, but any further weakness could spur renewed domestic demand.
Shell egg prices held steady in most regions, though West Coast markets eased slightly. Supplies have improved, but seasonal demand and rising Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) cases — eight confirmed by USDA in the past 30 days — are keeping markets firm.
Meanwhile, U.S. milk production remains strong, with July output up 3.4 percent year-over-year, the largest gain since May 2021, supported by high butterfat levels.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Farmers face lower returns on butter and cheese, but strong milk production and steady egg demand help balance the market. Disease risks remain a key factor to watch heading into fall.
Shrinking slaughter capacity may delay heifer retention, complicating herd rebuilding plans.
February 03, 2026 02:26 PM
·
Securing Critical Water Resources for South Texas Agriculture
February 03, 2026 01:10 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney says farmers there are already sounding the alarm about what this could mean for the future of ag research.
February 03, 2026 01:03 PM
·
February 03, 2026 12:58 PM
Global pork production is expected to rise in the first half of 2026, despite trade volatility stemming from shifting import policies and swine disease pressures.
February 03, 2026 12:50 PM
·
Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Batey joined us with the latest on biosecurity efforts and the state’s new “Know Before You Show” initiative.
February 02, 2026 12:29 PM
·
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller discusses the state’s latest efforts to prevent the New World screwworm from reaching Texas.
February 02, 2026 12:22 PM
·
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
·
Strong rail demand and higher fuel costs raise transportation risk even as barge and export flows stabilize.
January 30, 2026 02:21 PM
·
