BEEF

Prices have acquiesced to seasonal patterns, easing into October as buyers stepped back from elevated levels, allowing values to moderate despite persistently tight supplies. In the coming weeks, prices are expected to find renewed support as holiday demand converges with limited availability of uncommitted beef, likely pushing retail values higher. While demand has shifted across primals, overall consumption remains resilient at current price levels, keeping values well above the five-year average. The typical seasonal increase in beef production is expected to be tempered by weak packer margins, prompting processors to maintain shorter slaughter schedules. Meanwhile, reduced imports of live cattle from Mexico and frozen beef from Brazil continue to constrain overall supply. Although prices normally soften between Labor Day and the start of holiday procurement, this year’s tighter supply backdrop is prompting buyers to secure coverage earlier than usual.