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:
Long-term demand uncertainty is reshaping specialty crop strategies as producers adapt to fewer, older consumers.
January 07, 2026 08:01 AM
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Seasonal boxed beef softness does not change the tight-supply outlook — leverage remains closer to the farm gate heading into 2026.
January 07, 2026 06:00 AM
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Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
January 06, 2026 03:09 PM
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Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.
January 06, 2026 02:46 PM
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Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
January 06, 2026 01:28 PM
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Corn export strength remains a key demand anchor, while China’s continued involvement in soybeans and sorghum bears close watching for price direction.
January 06, 2026 01:12 PM
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Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
January 06, 2026 01:04 PM
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The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
January 06, 2026 12:21 PM
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New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
January 06, 2026 12:09 PM
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