WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. red meat production finished 2025 on a stronger monthly note, led by higher beef and pork output in December, even as full-year totals remained below 2024 levels. USDA data show packers ran harder late in the year, supported by more slaughter days and heavier carcass weights.
Beef production totaled 2.30 billion pounds in December, up 4 percent from a year earlier. Cattle slaughter increased 2 percent to 2.58 million head, while average live weights climbed sharply, up 32 pounds to 1,463 pounds. The weight gain accounted for much of the year-over-year increase in beef output despite a smaller national cattle herd.
Pork production reached a record December high of 2.52 billion pounds, up 8 percent from 2024. Hog slaughter rose 7 percent to 11.5 million head, with average live weights edging up 2 pounds to 293 pounds, reinforcing strong processing efficiency.
Beyond beef and pork, veal production declined sharply, down 31 percent, while lamb and mutton production rose 3 percent. For all of 2025, total red meat production fell 2 percent, with beef down 4 percent and pork down 1 percent year over year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Beef demand could be influencing other economic sectors, as consumers adjust spending habits to prioritize higher-priced beef products.
October 02, 2025 01:39 PM
·
“It, all of a sudden, says that tracking and fighting hunger is not a priority, apparently, at the federal level.”
October 02, 2025 01:22 PM
·
In a final rule published in the Federal Register, the Department states that it will no longer base wage rates on the Farm Labor Survey.
October 02, 2025 11:20 AM
·
USDA’s report shows wheat strength overall, with winter wheat yields setting records, while spring wheat and rye saw declines. Oats and barley remain constrained by record-low acreage despite stable or rising yields.
October 01, 2025 04:24 PM
·
Bigger-than-expected corn and wheat stocks are bearish for prices, while soybean figures were neutral. Farmers may face additional price pressure as harvest accelerates.
October 01, 2025 04:02 PM
·
FarmHER Laura Adams raises cattle in Georgia, overcoming family tragedy with the help of Farm Dog of the Year, Skippy.
October 01, 2025 11:15 AM
·
