Dairy Markets See Lower Butter And Cheese Prices

Disease risks remain a key factor to watch heading into fall.

butter Cristen Clark_FarmHER S1_Ep 11

FarmHER Cristen Clark (Season 1, Episode 11)

FarmHER, Inc.

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.
Related Stories
Expect incremental near-term lift for feed grains, proteins, and ethanol as tariff cuts and smoother approvals translate into real orders.
While there has been an increase in outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) this migration season, the CDC says the public health risk is low.
If confirmed, early Chinese buys tighten nearby Gulf/PNW capacity and could bump basis in export-oriented regions.
Trade pacts with Malaysia and Cambodia unlock tariff-free and preferential lanes for key U.S. farm goods, expanding long-term demand in Southeast Asia.
Alan Bjerga, Senior Vice President of Communications with the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), shares updates and resources available to dairy producers.
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio, discusses President Trump’s move to halt trade talks with Canada and Mexico over a commercial about tariffs launched by the Government of Ontario.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Oil-led rallies can move soybean prices quickly, but sustained gains will require continued strength in soybean oil and broader biofuel demand signals.
Cape Cod FarmHER Chloe Starr dives into the world of shellfish farming at one of the few oyster & clam hatcheries in the U.S.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to discuss seasonal affective disorder, winter mental health, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being in rural communities.
FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
CLAAS Senior Vice President for the Americas Region Eric Raby joined us to preview the new docuseries “CLAAS: Made for More,” premiering tonight at 9 PM ET only on RFD-TV.
Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.