Why the U.S. cattle herd is at a 75-year low — and what it means for beef prices
The U.S. cattle herd has reached its lowest size in 75 years, with only 86.2 million head reported at the start of 2023. Factors contributing to this decline include rising operational costs, drought, and increased competition in the cattle industry. Despite the shrinking herd, U.S. beef production remains strong due to the increased weight of cattle over the decades.
- ▪The U.S. cattle herd is the smallest it has been since 1951.
- ▪Rising costs and urban sprawl have made farming more challenging for producers.
- ▪There has been a 17% decline in cattle operations from 2017 to 2022.
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Why the U.S. cattle herd is at a 75-year low — and what it means for beef prices May 29, 20265:00 AM ET By Joe Hernandez Cows stand in a feed barn at Hallstead Farms in Lexington, Ky., in February. Although the U.S. cattle herd size has shrunk in recent decades, U.S. beef production has remained strong, partly because cattle now weigh hundreds of pounds more than they did in the 1950s. Luke Sharrett for NPR hide caption toggle caption Luke Sharrett for NPR Grocery prices got you down? Learn how to cut your food bill with NPR's 4-part newsletter. Sign up here for budgeting tips, meal planning and more. Beef has long been an iconic and beloved staple of the American diet, from barbecue to hamburgers and steaks. Even as retail prices have soared recently, U.S.
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