WASHINGTON, DC – USDA’s latest WASDE report points to tighter dynamics and stronger prices across much of the livestock and dairy complex in 2026, even as total red meat and poultry production edges higher. Beef and pork production were both revised upward, while poultry output was trimmed, reflecting shifting herd dynamics, disease impacts, and evolving demand.
Beef production is now projected higher on increased slaughter of steers, heifers, and cows, along with slightly heavier dressed weights. While the January Cattle report confirmed a smaller 2025 calf crop, USDA expects more cattle outside feedlots to be available for placement early in 2026. Pork production was also raised on higher slaughter levels and modestly heavier weights in the first half of the year.
In contrast, broiler and turkey production forecasts were lowered for early 2026. Recent hatchery data and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza-related culling weighed on poultry and egg production, tightening supplies into the first quarter.
Trade and price outlooks turned supportive. Beef imports were raised on strong demand for lean processing beef, while pork exports increased on improved competitiveness. Fed-cattle and hog prices were raised across all quarters, and the all-milk price was lifted to $18.95 per hundredweight.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.