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U.S. red meat production down 6%

Commercial red meat production during July 2014 was 3.907 billion pounds, down 6% from July 2013, according to USDA.

Beef production was reported at 2.086 billion pounds, 9% lower than a year ago, with the slaughter declining 10% to 2.6 million head and the average live weight gaining 18 pounds to 1,320 pounds.

Veal was pegged at 7.8 million pounds, a 19% drop, with the kill down 31% at 48,500 head and average live weight up 41 pounds to 275 pounds.

Pork came out at 1.799 billion pounds, 2% less than last year, with the slaughter 7% lower at 8.457 million head and average live weight 12 pounds higher at 283 pounds.

Lamb and mutton was reported at 13.9 million pounds, down 2%, with the slaughter also down 2% at 210,200 head and average live weight losing a pound to 132 pounds.

For 2014 to date, U.S. red meat production is 27.377 billion pounds, 3% lower than this time last year.