USDA discovers H5N1 in dairy cow meat slated for slaughter

USDA has reported the detection of avian influenza virus particles in meat from a dairy cow slated for slaughter.

It marks the first finding since the virus transitioned from birds to cattle.

Despite the discovery, USDA assures the public that the meat supply remains safe due to rigorous inspections before and after slaughter. USDA says there were no detections in samples from the remaining 95 cattle.

Additionally, five more herds across South Dakota and Colorado were confirmed to be infected, bringing the U.S. total to 63 herds across nine states.

Related Stories
Expanding chicken supplies are likely to keep prices under pressure in early 2026 despite steady demand growth.
Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.