The United States Department of Agriculture’s 2024 broiler forecast is out, and producer margins are riding on a reduction in cases of High-Path Avian Influenza (HPAI)
The USDA’s outlook board is projecting next year’s broiler production to be up about 1.5 percent, coming in just shy of 48 billion pounds. Prices are expected to average $1.28/pound, down about 2 percent in 2023.
However, outlook board chair Mark Jekanowski says producer margins could still improve—however, that depends on lower feed prices and an expectation for a decrease in HPAI cases.
HPAI is still a concern for poultry producers all across the U.S., but cases of the virus have slowed in recent weeks.
APHIS hasn’t posted a significant case of more than 100 birds since mid-April. The most recent was a facility in Indiana where 20 birds were culled.
Right now, the USDA is testing a handful of vaccine candidates, but industry experts warn there could be significant pushback because other countries don’t like vaccinated poultry.
Farm Bureau Economist Bernt Nelson says vaccinating the U.S. poultry population could cost the U.S. more than $6 billion dollars in lost trade value. Officials say producers should instead focus on keeping up with their biosecurity measures.
Higher output keeps milk supplies ample, reinforcing expectations for softer dairy prices even as feed costs remain favorable.
February 24, 2026 07:30 AM
·
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
February 23, 2026 01:40 PM
·
The debate now matters as much as the policy — market rules and regulatory clarity depend on whether Congress can finish the bill this year.
February 22, 2026 03:00 PM
·
Domestic beef demand remains solid, with the strongest growth occurring through retail channels, according to consumers surveyed in the latest K-State Meat Demand Monitor.
February 22, 2026 09:00 AM
·
The USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum highlights modest price support from tighter supplies across cotton, grains, dairy, livestock, and sugar into 2026.
February 19, 2026 01:48 PM
·
Lori Stevermer with the National Pork Producers Council reacts to the USDA’s speedline proposal, the new Farm Bill’s fix for California’s Prop-12, and other policy developments impacting the pork industry.
February 18, 2026 12:18 PM
·
