WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. red meat production fell in 2025 as lower cattle and hog slaughter pulled total output below the previous year. Lower slaughter numbers helped tighten supplies even as animal weights moved higher.
USDA said total red meat production reached 53.8 billion pounds in 2025, down 2 percent from 2024. Beef production fell 4 percent to 26.1 billion pounds, while pork slipped 1 percent to 27.6 billion pounds. Lamb and mutton production edged slightly higher.
Commercial cattle slaughter dropped 6 percent to 29.8 million head. Hog slaughter fell 1 percent to 128 million head. Average live weights increased, with cattle up 33 pounds to 1,432 pounds and hogs up 1 pound to 289 pounds.
The packing sector remained concentrated. The 11 largest cattle plants handled 47 percent of total cattle slaughter, while the 15 largest hog plants accounted for 65 percent of hog slaughter.
Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Texas produced 49 percent of U.S. commercial red meat output in 2025. USDA also reported 1,127 federally inspected slaughter plants at the start of 2026, up from 1,089 a year earlier.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower slaughter numbers reduced 2025 red meat output even with heavier cattle and hogs.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
The Ranger Road Fire is fully contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres. Ranchers face significant cattle and fence losses, with recovery efforts underway.
February 26, 2026 01:04 PM
·
USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance payments could begin this weekend as producers face tight margins, shifting acreage expectations, cattle herd contraction, and growing pressure for a stronger farm safety net.
February 26, 2026 12:11 PM
·
Three junior heifer exhibitors continue their trek through the Texas Swing at the San Antonio Stock Show, balancing competition, friendship, and life on the road.
February 25, 2026 04:41 PM
·
Nick Westgerdes of the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers breaks down farmland values, rental rates, and sales trends in Illinois, while previewing the upcoming land values conference for 2026.
February 25, 2026 02:59 PM
·
Analysts warn the closed U.S.-Mexico border is straining cattle supplies and packing capacity. StoneX and USDA data point to long-term industry shifts.
February 25, 2026 12:37 PM
·
Michael Kelsey of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association joined us with the latest on the Oklahoma wildfires, recovery efforts for ranchers, and the role agriculture leaders are playing in supporting rural communities.
February 25, 2026 12:13 PM
·
