NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association, U.S. ethanol production moved slightly higher in the week ending May 1, even as gasoline demand and exports eased. Output rose 0.8 percent to 1.02 million barrels per day, equal to 42.71 million gallons daily. That was 0.3 percent below the same week last year but 3.4 percent above the five-year average.
The longer-term pace was weaker. The four-week average ethanol production rate slipped 2.2 percent to 1.05 million barrels per day, equal to an annualized 16.09 billion gallons. Ethanol stocks also inched higher, rising 0.5 percent to 26.0 million barrels.
Inventories were 3.3 percent above a year ago and nearly 12 percent above the five-year average. Stocks increased in every region except the East Coast, showing supply remains comfortable even with production still running near the one-million-barrel mark.
On the demand side, gasoline supplied fell 3.2 percent to 8.81 million barrels per day, a four-week low. Refiner and blender net ethanol inputs also declined 1.6 percent, while exports dropped 18.2 percent to 139,000 barrels per day.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Ethanol plants kept production steady, but softer gasoline demand and lower exports may limit near-term momentum.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Strong supplies and rising stocks point to continued price pressure unless demand accelerates.
February 09, 2026 10:45 AM
·
Low prices are painful now, but production response could support stronger milk markets later in 2026.
February 09, 2026 10:25 AM
·
Texas cowboy chef and host of RFD Network’s Twisted Skillet, Sean Koehler, shares an elote-style street corn dip just in time for Super Bowl Sunday. This skillet-cooked corn dish combines open-fire cooking and bold regional flavors for a delicious twist on Mexican Street Corn.
February 06, 2026 04:50 PM
·
The USDA’s February WASDE report looms as the CME Ag Economy Barometer shows declining farmer confidence, and more ag industry groups calling for swift policy action.
February 06, 2026 04:18 PM
·
Policies aimed at ground beef prices may primarily reshape dairy incentives rather than deliver lasting consumer savings.
February 06, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Quick to prep and packed with flavor, this dish is a bold way to kick up any weekend spread.
February 04, 2026 02:54 PM
·
