Pork producers want action on labor.
Industry leaders told Minnesota state ag lawmakers that they need help.
“When you think about the labor that’s necessary for providing care to the animals in our barns, it takes a skilled workforce. When you think about the available skilled labor resources and the geographic proximity of the barns, the reality is that there’s just a gap in there. As far as the people that are here and able to provide some of the labor, there’s just a shortage,” said Daryl Timmerman.
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Winter Weather, Drought Shape Early 2026 Farm Conditions
Protein markets are fragmenting. Beef is supply-driven and more structurally expensive, whereas pork and poultry remain price-competitive.
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.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
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.
