NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — New data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows red meat production continuing to ease as tighter cattle supplies and mixed hog numbers shape the fall slaughter pace.
The October Livestock Slaughter Report (PDF Version) from USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) highlights a 3 percent year-over-year decline in total commercial red meat output, marking another month of reduced beef availability for processors and retailers.
Beef production fell 6 percent in October 2024, as cattle slaughter dropped 8 percent, despite average live weights rising by 30 pounds. Veal volumes saw the steepest cuts, down 39 percent as calf slaughter fell sharply.
Pork was the lone category holding steady. Production edged slightly higher on firmer carcass weights, offsetting a 1 percent decline in hog slaughter. Lamb and mutton output slipped 8 percent on lighter weights and marginally lower sheep slaughter.
Operationally, the data reflect the ongoing impact of historically small cattle inventories and stable but cautious hog numbers. Processors continue to rely on heavier carcasses to maintain throughput.
Looking ahead, year-to-date red meat output is running 3 percent below 2024, with beef down 4 percent and pork down 1 percent.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Tight cattle supplies continue to drive lower beef output despite heavier weights.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
New U.S. fees on Chinese-owned and built ships took effect overnight, marking the latest escalation in maritime trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.
October 14, 2025 11:33 AM
·
President Trump is expected to press Argentina to take a tougher stance on China in exchange for political and economic support.
October 14, 2025 11:12 AM
·
Tammi Arender takes us to 3 Board Farm to meet some first-generation farmers who took a leap of faith and, in the process, found a new purpose.
October 13, 2025 02:11 PM
·
“Good flies? Is that like a good fire ant?” Miller said. “I don’t know what a good fly is. I don’t know if they’re afraid to kill house flies or stable flies, but I’m ready to kill the screwworm fly.”
October 13, 2025 01:28 PM
·
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is urging Congress and the Trump Administration to act quickly on behalf of American agriculture.
October 13, 2025 11:42 AM
·
Better yield measurement means fairer grids, more precise breeding targets, and more dollars for truly efficient cattle.
October 13, 2025 10:45 AM
·
Escalating U.S.–China tensions threaten soybean demand as farm finances are stretched further.
October 13, 2025 10:40 AM
·
Expect a steady corn grind and selective basis strength where exports and local blending stay active.
October 09, 2025 05:10 PM
·
CoBank Lead Grains Economist Tanner Ehmke joins us to share insight and concerns over current grain storage capacity as export demand lags.
October 09, 2025 01:36 PM
·
