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Cattle industry cites tight supplies as Trump targets rising beef costs

The high retail price of beef became a target of the Trump administration late this year.

Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association executive director Kaitlyn Root says there are several reasons consumers are paying more.

“When you have a shrinking herd, which is what we have right now, due to drought. And you have high demand from consumers, you are going to see prices rise a bit.”

She tells Brownfield consumers continue seeking beef and points out many grocery items have become more expensive.

“Within our industry, we kind of compare a cup of coffee when you go to Starbucks is $6. So what’s a pound of burger, you know? I think our consumers are weighing what’s important to them and what’s important to feed their family with.”

Earlier this fall President Trump announced plans to increase beef imports from Argentina to lower U.S. beef prices.