WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. red meat production fell in April, but pork output reached a record high as heavier hogs helped offset a smaller slaughter pace. USDA says commercial red meat production totaled 4.46 billion pounds, down 3 percent from April 2025.
Beef production accounted for most of the decline. USDA reported that April beef production hit 2.1 billion pounds, down 6 percent from last year, while cattle slaughter fell 9 percent to 2.34 million head.
Heavier cattle helped limit the drop in production. The average live weight reached 1,467 pounds, up 36 pounds from a year earlier, continuing the trend of heavier carcasses supporting beef tonnage.
Pork production totaled 2.35 billion pounds, up slightly from last year and a record for April. Hog slaughter was down 1 percent at 10.7 million head, while average live weight increased to 293 pounds.
Year-to-date red meat production is down 2 percent, with beef lower and pork higher.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Tight cattle supplies continue to limit beef production, while heavier hogs are helping pork output hold firm.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Higher cow numbers and slightly stronger output per cow pushed milk production above last year.
April 28, 2026 10:00 AM
·
Food inflation is still building in 2026, with beef leading pressure while eggs and dairy offer some relief.
April 28, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Rotational grazing can improve pasture use and soil health while helping control feed and drought-related risk.
April 28, 2026 07:00 AM
·
March cold storage data showed generally tighter year-over-year stock levels across several key meat and dairy categories.
April 28, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Spring Weather Splits Conditions Across American Farm Country
April 27, 2026 05:34 PM
·
Meredith Petersen joined us to discuss the National Swine Health Strategy, how it was developed through industry collaboration, potential challenges ahead, and its expected benefits for pork producers.
April 27, 2026 03:05 PM
·
