News

Red meat production declines in November

The USDA says red meat production for November dropped slightly compared to year-ago levels. 

Total beef production dropped 6 percent to 2.28 billion pounds, an increase in slaughter more than canceled out heavier dressed weights.

Pork production was up 2 percent to 2.39 billion pounds, as total slaughter also increased 2 percent.

January to November 2023 red meat production is down 2 percent from 2022, largely due to the 5 percent decline in accumulated beef production.

Beef cow slaughter was virtually unchanged relative to last year which would indicate liquidation has accelerated later in 2023 (the nominal decline in beef cow slaughter is also pulling from a smaller herd).

The USDA says the November dairy cow slaughter was 229,700 head, down 13,200 from October and 21,200 from November 2022.