WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — Red meat production in the United States fell sharply in August, with total output at 4.15 billion pounds—down 10 percent from a year earlier, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) livestock slaughter data (PDF VERSION) for Sept. 25, 2025.
Beef production dropped 12 percent to 2.02 billion pounds, as cattle slaughter fell to 2.33 million head, 14 percent below last August. Heavier carcass weights, averaging 1,413 pounds, only partially offset the decline.
Veal production hit an all-time low at 1.9 million pounds, 38 percent under last year, with calf slaughter down 45 percent to just 9,400 head.
Pork production totaled 2.12 billion pounds, down eight percent, with hog slaughter slipping seven percent to 10.1 million head. Average hog weights eased by two pounds to 280.
Lamb and mutton production reached 10 million pounds, off five percent from last year, with slightly fewer animals processed at lighter weights.
For the year to date, commercial red meat output stands at 35.2 billion pounds, 3 percent below the 2024 level. Beef is down four percent, veal 38 percent, and pork two percent, while lamb and mutton remain up three percent.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Smaller slaughter numbers across beef and pork signal tighter supplies into late 2025, while record-low veal production highlights ongoing structural changes in the sector.
Ranchbot Monitoring Solutions provides remote water-monitoring technology to help ranchers manage livestock water more efficiently.
February 05, 2026 03:26 PM
·
Jones Hamilton Company shares insights on herd health, efficiency, and innovation for cattle producers this year at NCBA CattleCon in Nashville.
February 05, 2026 03:07 PM
·
The fun continues in Nashville next year at CattleCon 2027!
February 05, 2026 11:24 AM
·
Quick to prep and packed with flavor, this dish is a bold way to kick up any weekend spread.
February 04, 2026 02:54 PM
·
As cattle markets show renewed strength, producers gathering at CattleCon are focused on protecting operations, managing risk, and positioning for opportunity in the year ahead.
February 04, 2026 01:41 PM
·
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo continues through Saturday, showcasing livestock, youth involvement, and agricultural talent, with the Junior Sale of Champions serving as the culmination of the 23-day event.
February 04, 2026 12:54 PM
·
