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USDA beef, pork estimates down from June

The USDA has reduced its 2026 red meat production guess, while increasing expectations for poultry.

Beef is projected at 25.288 billion pounds, down 150 million from June due to tight ready numbers, with an average steer price of $251.10, up $.94, against lower imports, exports, and consumption.

Pork is seen at 27.955 billion pounds, 40 million lower because of second half slaughter, with an average barrow and gilt price of $64.82, a cut of $1.81, with USDA raising imports, lowering exports, and leaving consumption unchanged.

Chicken is estimated at 49.552 billion pounds, a gain of 175 million thanks to processing numbers and margins, with an average price of $1.213 per pound, down a tenth of a cent, and minor adjustments to trade and consumption.

Turkey is pegged at 5.056 billion pounds, up 20 million on the processing pace, with an average price of $1.653 per pound, $.041 higher, and almost no changes to trade and consumption.

Egg production is seen at 9.117 billion dozen, steady on the month, with an average price of $.968, down $.013, and no change to imports, with higher exports and lower consumption.

The USDA’s next supply, demand, and production update is out August 12^th.