USDA’s December report places U.S. hogs and pigs at nearly 79 million head, which is down nearly one percent compared to the last quarter. However, the report exceeded expectations in other ways.
“The main surprise is a record September to November pig crop, up more than two percent from a year ago and just above the upper end of the range of pre-report expectations as the marginal cut in sows farrowed was more than offset by 11.92 Pigs per litter. Up more than two percent from last year’s record for the period continuing the upward trend in pigs per litter,” said Jason Franken.
While productivity trends like these are hard to maintain, Franken says there is still room for growth, with pig producers in Denmark currently averaging 15 pigs per litter.
Rising beef supplies and lower cattle prices, weaker hog markets, and softening dairy prices will shape producer margins heading into 2026.
December 11, 2025 01:32 PM
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Outdated reporting thresholds reduce cash-market visibility and increase the urgency of comprehensive Mandatory Price Reporting reform.
December 10, 2025 07:00 PM
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Farm Journal Foundation Senior Policy Adviser Dr. Stephanie Mercier outlines new research on the top sixteen biosecurity threats in agriculture/
December 10, 2025 01:05 PM
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Rancher David Kroa of
One Man Ranch joins us to share the story of his remarkable Shorthorn cow, Trish, who is beating the odds.
December 10, 2025 12:11 PM
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December 10, 2025 11:03 AM
Cattle imports from Mexico remain stalled amid the New World screwworm outbreak. At the same time, Tyson closures add pressure on Nebraska producers and markets ahead of the USDA’s upcoming Cattle on Feed Report.
December 08, 2025 01:55 PM
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