U.S. beef production is expected to decline this year and next as cattle slaughter remains historically low, according to USDA. The Economic Research Service said Thursday that 2026 beef production is projected at 24.877 billion pounds, down 90 million pounds from its August forecast. The agency lowered its 2027 projection by 145 million pounds to 24.835 billion pounds. Successful Farming reported cattle slaughter during the first eight months of 2026 averaged about 8,000 fewer head per weekday than during the same period last year. USDA said fewer cattle are expected to enter feedlots late this year and early in 2027, slowing marketings during the second half of next year. Higher projected feed costs also are expected to reduce carcass weights. Despite tight cattle supplies, USDA lowered its cattle price forecasts, citing weaker packer demand and reduced processing capacity.
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