December 30, 2011

US commercial red meat production slips 2% in November

US commercial red meat production fell 2% in November 2010 and recorded a total of 4.26 billion pounds, according to the latest Livestock Slaughter report from the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).

Pork production totalled 2.09 billion pounds, up 1% from the previous year. Hog slaughter totalled 10.04 million head, up 1% from November 2010. The average live weight was unchanged from the previous year, at 278 pounds.

Beef production, at 2.15 billion pounds, was 4% below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totalled 2.79 million head, down 3% from November 2010. The average live weight was down six pounds from the previous year, at 1,293 pounds.

Veal production totalled 10.8 million pounds, 5% below November a year ago. Calf slaughter totalled 73,000 head, up slightly from November 2010. The average live weight was down 14 pounds from last year, at 255 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 12.6 million pounds, was down 12% from November 2010. Sheep slaughter totalled 186,700 head, 15% below last year. The average live weight was 135 pounds, up four pounds from November a year ago.

January to November 2011 commercial red meat production was 45.0 billion pounds, up 1% from 2010.

Accumulated beef production was up slightly from last year, veal was down 3%, pork was up 2% from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 9%.

November 2010 and November 2011 both contained 22 weekdays (including two holidays) and four Saturdays.