NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. protein prices are no longer moving together, and retail data now shows a clear split between beef and other major proteins. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service’s retail price and spread data through late 2025 indicate beef prices are rising due to tight supply fundamentals, while pork and poultry continue to follow more normal seasonal and inflationary patterns.
All-fresh beef retail values increased nearly 20 percent from late 2023 through November 2025, with prices exceeding $9 per pound and holding there without a typical fall pullback. Pork prices, by contrast, peaked seasonally in summer and softened into fall, while chicken prices remained comparatively flat throughout the year. That divergence suggests that beef is being repriced at a structurally higher level, rather than simply reflecting broad-based food inflation.
Price spread data reinforces the story. Beef farmers’ share of the retail dollar improved compared with earlier years, but failed to keep pace with accelerating retail prices late in 2025. Pork producers saw their share shrink, while poultry margins remained stable, reflecting ample supplies.
Consumer behavior appears adaptive rather than resistant. Shoppers are trading between proteins and within cuts, but overall demand has not collapsed, allowing beef to retain premium status.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Protein markets are fragmenting — beef is supply-driven and structurally higher, while pork and poultry remain more price-competitive.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
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