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
U.S. producers are holding off on equipment investments amid financial pressure, market uncertainty, a rising demand for diesel, and growing desperation for trade wins.
September 12, 2025 11:18 AM
·
“A lot of natural instincts involved in this format.”
September 12, 2025 10:25 AM
·
The Interior Department is proposing to repeal the Bureau of Land Management’s Public Lands Rule. This move would make huge strides to empower local decision-making and restore balance between conservation and protecting rural livelihoods tied to these public lands.
September 10, 2025 02:45 PM
·
Mother-daughter RanchHER duo, Lyn and Sherrie Ray, joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report for a sneak peek at tonight’s brand new episode of FarmHER + RanchHER.
September 10, 2025 01:45 PM
·
The 2022 Census of Agriculture revealed a more than 30% decrease in U.S. dairy farms since 2017. The shrinking industry is now uniting to advocate for itself while also adopting technology to reduce operational strain.
September 10, 2025 12:55 PM
·
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was once again on the national stage, front and center this week before the House Agriculture Committee.
September 10, 2025 11:10 AM
·
September 10, 2025 10:07 AM
·
Labor is an ongoing crisis in the ag sector. One industry group outlines three vital reforms to the H-2A visa program that farmers need to secure an affordable, stable workforce.
September 09, 2025 12:22 PM
·
Keir Albert of Albert Acres Cattle Company joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his journey into raising Texas Longhorn cattle and the reason behind his trip to Kenya.
September 08, 2025 01:29 PM
·
