Despite rising price points for meat and poultry, animal protein demand is expected to remain strong in the new year. The combination of higher revenues and falling feed prices is boosting producer optimism. CoBank Animal Protein Economist Brian Earnest joins us for an analysis of the market, including consumer demand for beef, chicken, and poultry, and the overall sentiment in the animal protein sector.
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Protein markets are fragmenting. Beef is supply-driven and more structurally expensive, whereas pork and poultry remain price-competitive.
Tight fed supplies shift margin risk to packers, strengthening cattle price leverage but increasing volatility.
Expanding chicken supplies are likely to keep prices under pressure in early 2026 despite steady demand growth.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.