November 30, 2010

US livestock markets respond to higher feed costs

Higher feed prices have put a stop to expansion of animal production in the US beef production and trade remains steady, however, no growth is expected in pork and poultry markets, according to the latest USDA estimates.

Broiler meat production in fourth-quarter 2010 is forecast at 9.2 billion pounds (4.17 billion tonnes), up 4% in contrast to last year. For 2010, broiler meat production is forecast at 36.6 billion pounds (16.44 billion tonnes), 3% higher than 2009.

Broiler meat production is expected to rise only 1.5% in 2011 due to the impact of a slow growing economy and higher prices for both corn and soymeal.