WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — U.S. commercial red meat production rose in March as a stronger pork run more than offset lower beef output. March production reached 4.51 billion pounds, up 2 percent from a year earlier.
Pork production totaled 2.40 billion pounds, up 7 percent from March 2025. Hog slaughter rose 6 percent to 11.0 million head, while average live weight edged up 1 pound to 292 pounds.
Beef production moved the other way. Output totaled 2.10 billion pounds, down 3 percent from a year ago. Cattle slaughter fell 6 percent to 2.34 million head, but average live weight climbed 45 pounds to 1,471 pounds.
Other species were lower as well. Veal production fell 16 percent, with calf slaughter down 23 percent. Lamb and mutton production dropped 6 percent, and sheep slaughter slipped 1 percent from last year.
For the first quarter, commercial red meat production totaled 13.2 billion pounds, down 2 percent from 2025 as lower beef output continued to weigh on the total.
Farm-Level Takeaway: March pork gains lifted total meat production, but first-quarter output still ran below last year.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
A rich, flavorful stock made by simmering corned beef with Cajun seasonings. Justin Wilson’s Eazy Corned Beef Stock recipe adds depth to beans, stews, and classic Southern dishes.
A down-home, one-pot wonder with a Cajun kick.
This is the basic roux. Cajuns will say that a finished roux shines. This is the only roux recipe you’ll ever need — I GARONTEE!
Cristen Clark is a
FarmHer to be admired. If you follow her blog, you know she is smart, funny, and full of love for her family, agriculture (specifically swine), and food!
June 18, 2025 02:03 PM
· FarmHER
This cast-iron Meat Lover’s Pizza is loaded with beef, sausage, ham, pepperoni—and ALL the cheese. It’s deep-dish, crispy-edged, and unapologetically extra.
All your cheeseburger faves—on a pizza! Beef, bacon, pickles, and melty cheese in every bite. It’s bold, beefy, and totally crave-worthy.
