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Concerns over beef price sustainability

A central Illinois cattle producer has some concerns over the current price of beef.

Chase Brown, who raises cattle in Macon County, says he’s worried about sustainability.

“A whole beef can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $3,000.”  He says, “Then with the processing on that, you know that’s a big outlay of cash for a family, especially in this economy.  I don’t think these prices are necessarily sustainable long term.”

Brown says he’s been able to take advantage of the high prices by culling some of his herd, but he’s cautious of expansion.

“We’re just kinda treading water and seeing where things are gonna go.”  He says, “We’d love to retain some heifers and grow the herd back a little bit, but at the same time it’s tough to miss out on those high prices too.”

He tells Brownfield he’s still optimistic about consumer demand for beef.

“At the end of the day, the American people love not only beef, but high-quality beef.”  He says, “I think beef will always have a place at the table, but maybe not as frequently.”

Brown says he’d like to see a more stable market where prices are still profitable for producers, but also not a detriment to demand growth.  

AUDIO: Chase Brown – Illinois farmer

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