All articles tagged with #cattle herd
The U.S. has restarted a border crossing for Mexican cattle to help ease record-high beef prices, but economists say the impact will likely be small and slow due to a shrinking U.S. herd, ongoing supply constraints, and a phased reopening with strict health checks.
America faces one of its most historic cattle shortages, with the U.S. cattle herd at about 86.2 million in 2026—the smallest since the early 1950s—driven by prolonged drought that has depleted pastures and forced ranchers to shrink herds. Tyson Foods is closing beef facilities in Illinois and Utah and exploring the sale of another in Washington as it reshapes its beef business amid ongoing supply constraints. The reduced herd has helped push beef prices higher, with retail Choice beef up roughly 23% from August 2024 to July 2026, and relief is unlikely soon since rebuilding the cattle herd could take years.
Beef prices remain near record highs due to the smallest U.S. cattle herd in decades, with ground beef up about 13% and steak up 16% from a year ago; yet demand is resilient, highlighted by roughly $352 million higher Fourth of July beef sales and a shift toward premium, quality-labeled cuts. NielsenIQ notes consumers view steak as an affordable luxury and seek quality and sourcing claims, while retailers and restaurants report sustained demand for premium beef. Rebuilding the herd could take years, limiting near-term price relief.