News

Broiler hatchery below last week, above last year

Broiler hatchery numbers were mixed but continue to point to higher production in 2025.

The USDA says 250.128 million broiler-type eggs were set into incubation, falling 225,000 on the week, but rising 1% on the year, with average hatchability of 78.8%.

191.518 million broiler-type chicks were placed into meat production, 783,000 less than the previous week, but slightly more than a year ago, with those birds heading to market starting in late spring.

Cumulative 2025 placements are 1% ahead of the 2024 pace, with the USDA’s updated annual production projection out May 12^th.

Comparisons for Brownfield states:

Arkansas: Sets: 26.249 million eggs, compared to 26.208 million the week before; Placements: 22.985 million head, compared to 20.919 million the prior week

Kentucky: Sets: 8.413 million eggs, compared to 8.148 million the week before; Placements: 5.731 million head, compared to 5.558 million the prior week

Missouri: Sets: 9.22 million eggs, compared to 9.225 million the week before; Placements: 5.593 million head, compared to 6.675 million the prior week

California/Tennessee/West Virginia: Sets: 16.24 million eggs, compared to 16.265 million the week before; Placements: 14.664 million head, compared to 14.942 million the prior week