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
Rural employers are slightly more optimistic, but labor shortages and renewed price pressures continue to limit growth across farm country according to a
December 10, 2025 11:56 AM
·
American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland shares the soybean sector outlook following the announcement of farm aid to offset losses for U.S. row crop growers.
December 10, 2025 11:33 AM
·
Grain farms still have strong balance sheets, but another stretch of low profits will force hard cost cuts, especially on high-rent, highly leveraged operations.
December 09, 2025 11:41 AM
·
Mold damage is tightening China’s corn supplies, supporting higher prices and creating potential demand for alternative feed grains in early 2026.
December 09, 2025 07:00 AM
·
Lawmakers and experts react to the Administration’s long-awaited announcement of “bridge” aid to stabilize farms and offset 2025 losses until expanded safety-net programs begin in 2026.
December 08, 2025 05:40 PM
·
Cattle imports from Mexico remain stalled amid the New World screwworm outbreak. At the same time, Tyson closures add pressure on Nebraska producers and markets ahead of the USDA’s upcoming Cattle on Feed Report.
December 08, 2025 01:55 PM
·
