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
Domestic beef demand remains solid, with the strongest growth occurring through retail channels, according to consumers surveyed in the latest K-State Meat Demand Monitor.
February 22, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Stronger fuel demand supports corn usage despite a steady production pace.
February 21, 2026 07:00 PM
·
The long-term viability of a ranching operation often hinges on how effectively its owners navigate the overlapping layers of IRS regulations, state tax incentives, and USDA disaster programs.
February 20, 2026 04:43 PM
·
Fed cattle numbers are down two percent in February, according to the latest USDA report. Marketings fell 13 percent, signaling continued pressure on beef prices in 2026.
February 20, 2026 03:38 PM
·
New details on the massive wildfire threatening farms and ranches in the Southern Plains.
February 20, 2026 11:24 AM
·
Kerry Hartwig from Sukup Manufacturing previews the grain management solutions they plan to share with producers at the upcoming Commodity Classic in San Antonio.
February 19, 2026 02:36 PM
·
