September 10, 2009

The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) recently released livestock slaughter statistics such as beef and veal showing decreased overall slaughtering in July compared to last year.

Cattle slaughter totalled 2.92 million head, down 5 percent from July 2008. The average live weight was up 9 pounds from the previous year, at 1,282 pounds.

Calf slaughter totalled 79,900 head, down 9 percent from July 2008. The average live weight was down 13 pounds from last year, at 230 pounds.

Hog kill totalled 9.15 million head, down 3 percent from July 2008. The average live weight was up 5 pounds from the previous year, at 267 pounds.

Sheep slaughter totalled 207,400 head, slightly above last year. The average live weight was 135 pounds, up 3 pounds from July a year ago.