Livestock Slaughter
In August 2023, the United States witnessed a decline in commercial red meat production, with total production reaching 4.67 billion pounds, representing a 3 percent decrease compared to the same month in 2022.
Livestock Slaughter and Commercial Red Meat Production (August 2023)
Executive Summary:
In August 2023, the United States witnessed a decline in commercial red meat production, with total production reaching 4.67 billion pounds, representing a 3 percent decrease compared to the same month in 2022. This decline was mainly driven by reduced beef production, while pork production remained relatively stable. Additionally, year-to-date figures for 2023 indicate an overall decrease in commercial red meat production compared to 2022.
Commercial Red Meat Production in August 2023:
Total Red Meat Production: 4.67 billion pounds
Year-over-Year Change: -3 percent
Beef Production:
Beef Production in August 2023: 2.36 billion pounds
Year-over-Year Change: -6 percent
Cattle Slaughter: 2.89 million head (-6 percent)
Average Live Weight: 1,351 pounds (+3 pounds)
Veal Production:
Veal Production in August 2023: 4.2 million pounds
Year-over-Year Change: -9 percent
Calf Slaughter: 26,600 head (-22 percent)
Average Live Weight: 273 pounds (+31 pounds)
Pork Production:
Pork Production in August 2023: 2.29 billion pounds
Year-over-Year Change: Slight decrease
Hog Slaughter: 11.1 million head (+1 percent)
Average Live Weight: 278 pounds (-4 pounds)
Lamb and Mutton Production:
Lamb and Mutton Production in August 2023: 10.5 million pounds
Year-over-Year Change: -10 percent
Sheep Slaughter: 183,800 head (+1 percent)
Average Live Weight: 113 pounds (-14 pounds)
Year-to-Date (January to August 2023) Red Meat Production:
Total Year-to-Date Production: 36.1 billion pounds
Year-over-Year Change: -2 percent
Production Breakdown (January to August 2023):
Beef Production: Down 4 percent from 2022
Veal Production: Down 11 percent from 2022
Pork Production: Up 1 percent from 2022
Lamb and Mutton Production: Down 2 percent from 2022
Factors Impacting Production:
Cattle and Hog Slaughter: Reduced cattle and hog slaughter contributed to the overall decline in red meat production.
Live Weight Changes: Variations in average live weights influenced production figures.
Market Demand: Changes in consumer demand and market dynamics played a role in production levels.
Outlook:
The red meat industry continues to experience fluctuations in production, influenced by factors such as supply chain disruptions, market trends, and animal health conditions. Stakeholders in the industry should closely monitor these factors as they plan for the remainder of the year.
Note: Data source - USDA Livestock Slaughter and Commercial Red Meat Production Report (August 2023)
While challenges persist, the industry remains resilient, and proactive strategies are essential to address the evolving landscape of livestock slaughter and red meat production in the United States. Future reports will provide further insights into industry developments.