Health officials are still working to learn more about High-Path Avian Flu (HPAI) found in dairy cattle in several states, and on Tuesday, the markets reacted sharply to the news.
At first, the cases in Texas and Kansas left farmers and officials baffled, calling it a mystery illness. Some cows had to be culled, but others returned to normal, and it appears to only be affecting older dairy cows.
HPAI devastated the poultry industry over the last few years, with widespread outbreaks in commercial poultry flocks resulting in the death of millions of birds across the United States — specifically devastating egg-layer flocks. Previously, it was only detected in commercial and wild birds, however, scientists recently confirmed the first case affecting livestock, when it was discovered in a baby goat in Minnesota earlier this month.
Health officials say instances of HPAI in dairy cattle pose no threat to humans because of the pasteurization process that occurs before dairy products hit supermarket shelves.
Our friend, markets expert Tommy Grisafi was on the Cow Guy Close and said the outbreak could have a big impact on the markets if it gets any worse.
“What we’re worried about in commerce is that people in foreign countries will take a break on American beef,” Grisafi said, reacting to the news. “They’ll go elsewhere like New Zealand, Mexico, Australia... and if they have to go to England to get beef, that’s not good.”
Farmers display a unique optimism — planting with the expectation that weather, basis, and prices will improve by harvest — asserting that the profession is an identity, not just a job.
October 27, 2025 12:12 PM
·
Imported lean beef continues to play a critical role in U.S. hamburger and ground-beef production, with any added volume from Argentina serving as a supplement — not a market overhaul.
October 27, 2025 11:51 AM
·
A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
October 27, 2025 11:41 AM
·
Stay alert for trade announcements—especially border reopening timelines, tariff threats, and developments in Brazil’s export flows.
October 24, 2025 01:56 PM
·
R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard joins Market Day Report for his insight on the USDA’s plan to strengthen the U.S. beef industry.
October 24, 2025 01:28 PM
·
For our Countdown to Convention with Culver’s, we explore how the sea of FFA blue impacts local businesses.
October 24, 2025 11:58 AM
·
Until a phased reopening is inked, plan for tighter feeder availability, firmer basis near border yards, and continued reliance on domestic and Canadian sources.
October 24, 2025 11:42 AM
·
Set targets and use forwards, futures, or options to manage downside while preserving room for rallies.
October 24, 2025 11:05 AM
·
Bangladesh’s buying surge offers temporary relief for U.S. farmers facing weaker Chinese demand, highlighting how global politics can reshape export outlets overnight.
October 24, 2025 10:57 AM
·
