WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimate (WASDE) report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for February (PDF Version) points to tighter dynamics and stronger prices across much of the livestock and dairy complex in 2026, even as total red meat and poultry production edges higher.
Beef and pork production were both revised upward, while poultry output was trimmed, reflecting shifting herd dynamics, disease impacts, and evolving demand.
Beef production is now projected to be higher due to increased slaughter of steers, heifers, and cows, along with slightly heavier dressed weights. While the January Cattle Inventory report confirmed a smaller 2025 calf crop, USDA expects more cattle outside feedlots to be available for placement early in 2026. Pork production was also higher due to higher slaughter levels and modestly heavier weights in the first half of the year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
In contrast, broiler and turkey production forecasts were lowered for early 2026. Recent hatchery data and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza-related culling weighed on poultry and egg production, tightening supplies into the first quarter.
Trade and price outlooks turned supportive. Beef imports rose due to strong demand for lean processing beef, while pork exports increased due to improved competitiveness. Fed-cattle and hog prices were raised across all quarters, and the all-milk price was lifted to $18.95 per hundredweight.
Watch highlights and reactions to the February WASDE Report from today’s Market Day Report:
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January 16, 2026 01:16 PM
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National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
January 16, 2026 01:13 PM
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January 16, 2026 09:57 AM
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Soft equipment sales signal cautious farm spending as producers prioritize cash flow over expansion.
January 16, 2026 07:00 AM
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Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features swine competition with top exhibitors, including Grand Champion Brinley Wilson, ahead of Saturday’s premium sale.
January 15, 2026 04:07 PM
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Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
January 15, 2026 01:36 PM
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Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
January 15, 2026 12:51 PM
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House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
January 15, 2026 12:30 PM
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Record ethanol production and improving blending demand continue to support corn usage despite rising short-term inventories.
January 15, 2026 11:47 AM
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