Global food prices continue to drop but still remain significantly higher than a year ago.
Today’s FAO Food Price Index showed a steep drop in July of nearly 9 percent, but they are still 13 percent higher on the year. The July decline was the most drastic since 2008.
Vegetable oil and cereals came down significantly. Sugar, dairy, and meat also fell, but to a lesser extent.
Related Stories
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.
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.