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Broiler sets, placements remain on pace early in 2026

The USDA says broiler hatchery numbers early in 2026 are ahead of 2025, in-line with projections for increased production.

251.441 million broiler-type eggs were set into incubation, 945,000 less than last week, but 1% more than last year, with average hatchability dipping slightly to 79.4%.

195.704 million broiler-type chicks were placed into meat production, falling 1.002 million on the week, but rising 3% on the year with those birds headed to market in early to mid-February.

The USDA expects 2026 broiler production to be 48.6 billion pounds, about a half a billion larger than 2025, with the next guess out February 10^th.

Comparisons for Brownfield states:

Arkansas: Sets: 26.118 million eggs, compared to 26.102 million the prior week; Placements: 21.83 million head, compared to 22.214 million the week before

Kentucky: Sets: 8.094 million eggs, compared to 8.027 million the prior week; Placements: 6.053 million head, compared to 6.112 million the week before

Missouri: Sets: 9.114 million eggs, compared to 9.17 million the prior week; Placements: 5.998 million head, compared to 6.006 million the week before

California/Tennessee/West Virginia: Sets: 15.868 million eggs, compared to 15.853 million the prior week; Placements: 13.492 million head, compared to 13.915 million the week before