Market Trends with Tracy

Poultry leads the move lower as chicken prices ease, but across the board, the markets are full of mixed signals. Beef stays strong, dairy keeps sliding, and pork and grains add their own twists.BEEF: Demand is cooling a touch with grinds, briskets, and flanks easing back, but ribeyes and tenderloins are still charging higher. Supplies remain too tight for a true correction, so any relief looks more like a pause than a pullback. Heading into the holidays, the pain point for consumers hasn't hit yet – and we may not be close.POULTRY: Avian flu is back in the headlines – six new cases this week, hitting nearly 300K turkeys, stirred up by cooler weather and migration. On the chicken side, it's all good news: supply is finally ahead of demand, bringing prices down across the board. The question is, how long will the balance last?GRAINS: Markets are holding steady with corn at $4.17, soy flat, and wheat unchanged. All eyes are on the USDA report out Friday – if crop yield estimates are trimmed, we could finally see a push higher. Until then, it's calm in the grain bin.PORK: Bellies finally slipped, closing at $172 – down $10 from last week – and should keep easing over the next few weeks. But with cold storage stocks very low, don't expect a major falloff. Meanwhile, butts and ribs are ticking higher, loins are steady, and pork still delivers solid value on the plate.DAIRY: It's week four of declines at the CME – barrel down 8, block off 7, and butter slipping another 3. The slide keeps rolling, and while it's unclear how long it will last, for now we'll take the ride. Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Summer's still sizzling in the beef market, but other proteins and dairy are slipping. From ribeye highs to butter slides, it's a week of high steaks and low falls across the board.BEEF: Signs point to the market finally cooling as we move through September – but it may be short-lived. Ribeyes, tenderloins, chucks, rounds, and grinds are still climbing, though thin meats like skirts and briskets are starting to slip. With herds small and Mexico still closed, high prices aren't going anywhere soon… moderation may be coming, but not just yet.POULTRY: Production stays strong – up about 1% – but prices are sliding for the second week straight. Wings, breasts, and tenders are all moving lower, making chicken a solid feature right now. Still, with one new avian flu case reported and cooler weather coming, could we see trouble ahead?GRAINS: Corn nudged back over $4 for the first time in three weeks as export demand looks solid and crop estimates soften a bit from “best ever” to “some issues.” Soy keeps trying to rally but can't quite get there, while wheat remains the bargain buy of the bunch.PORK: Bellies are stuck in the $180–$185 range, closing at $182 – but the next move looks lower, so it's not the time to load up. Butts and ribs are bouncing back after recent declines, while loins continue to be the standout value cut.DAIRY: Week three of a sliding CME – barrel down 1, block down 3, and butter off another 11 after last week's steep drop. It's not a massive slide, but the steady decline is adding up – will the dip deepen, or start to level out?Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Summer's wrapping up, but the markets are still making waves. Pork bellies take a dive, beef keeps the heat on, and chicken cools just in time for football season. From butter drops to grain gluts, it's a late-summer belly flop across the board.BEEF: Prices keep climbing as production stays tight – 547K head harvested this week and even fewer expected with the holiday ahead. Chucks, grinds, ribeyes, and tenderloins are leading the charge, while strips are still the relative value. The market may cool off soon, but not yet – buy now, waiting will cost you money.POULTRY: Chicken prices finally cooled off for Labor Day – wings, breasts, and tenders are all down. Production is still running strong, about 1% ahead of last year, so we'll take the win and enjoy cheaper chicken for now. One small avian flu case popped up, but nothing major.GRAINS: Another rally fizzled – corn harvest is pegged at a massive 16.7 billion bushels, keeping prices in check. Corn nudged up slightly to $3.94, while soy and wheat stayed flat. With crops this strong, the market's still waiting for a spark to push things higher.PORK: Bellies slipped again, closing at $181 with more downside likely ahead. Butts and loins are steady, ribs are edging up, and overall production is running about 2% lower year-to-date. With nothing pushing demand higher, this market looks set to stay quiet for the next few weeks.DAIRY: CME gave back August's gains – barrel down 2, block down 3, and butter dropping a sharp 14. After weeks of climbing, this market is sliding fast… will the downturn stick?Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Sorry for the delay, we were on vacation on Friday. Market Updates for last week below!BEEF: Prices keep climbing across the board – ribeyes, tenderloins, chucks, and rounds are all on fire. With packers still losing money, production dropping, and the Southern border closed to live animal imports, pressure is building. Relief may come after Labor Day – but will it be too little, too late?POULTRY: Chicken stays strong with production up and demand steady – wings are flat for now while breasts and tenders ease a bit. Football season could give wings a lift, but the real watch is Avian Flu: after six clean weeks, a new case breaks the streak. Will cooler weather bring more trouble?GRAINS: Harvest is underway and while yields look good, they're not record-shattering just yet. Corn is holding under $4 for a third straight week, soy is showing some strength on export demand, and wheat is slipping. The market looks steady – but will exports or tariffs be the wild card?PORK: Bellies look like they've peaked, slipping back to $182 from last week's $194 – and likely heading lower into fall. With butts and loins down and ribs steady, pork remains one of the best buys on the menu. But is this the break buyers have been waiting for, or just a seasonal pause?DAIRY: After a couple of big weeks higher, the market eased back – barrel down 1½, block steady, and butter slipping just ½. The push has cooled for now, but will those gains start to melt further in the weeks ahead?Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

BEEF: The summer beef rally isn't slowing down – low production and high demand are keeping prices on the move. Middle meats, chucks, rounds, and grinds are all climbing, setting us up for a pricey Labor Day BBQ. Will the market cool after the holiday, or will tight cattle supplies keep the heat on?POULTRY: Production is running 1% ahead of last year, with demand staying strong as chicken remains the go-to alternative to high beef prices. Wings are steady for now, but will football season send them higher? Six weeks with no new Avian Flu cases – let's keep it going.GRAINS: Corn prices remain under $4 with a record U.S. harvest on the horizon – great for feeders, rough for farmers. But with soy inching up on palm oil tariffs and wheat holding steady, could this calm market be setting the stage for a surprise turn?PORK: Bellies cracked the $200 mark before slipping back – still riding high for now. But with just a few more weeks of seasonal strength left, will the fall bring the big break buyers have been waiting for?DAIRY: Cheese keeps climbing – barrel up 6, block up 4 – but butter's the rebel, dropping 11 points. With baking season buying about to kick off, is the clock ticking on those lower butter prices?Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

BEEF: Prices are surging in the dead of summer – and it's not slowing down. With record-high cattle costs and packers losing $300 a head, the market's acting more like spring than August… so what's driving this upside?POULTRY: Chicken stays steady – strong production, strong demand, and no big price moves on the horizon. With five weeks flu-free and beef heating up, is poultry about to hold its ground or ride the market wave?GRAINS: Grains keep sliding – with corn dipping under $4 a bushel for the first time in a long while. Soy and wheat are following suit, but could strong soy meal exports shake things up?PORK: Pork bellies bounce back to $189 – and the strength may hold through month's end. But with loins, butts, and ribs slipping, how long will the split market last?DAIRY: The CME heats up – barrel jumps 11, block climbs 12, and butter bucks the trend, sliding 4.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

BEEF: The market's still sliding, but not as fast as you'd think with production this tight. Ribeyes and tenderloins? We may have already hit the year's low – so is an expensive holiday season inevitable? Thin meats are dropping, grinds dipped too, but this market's playing a long game.POULTRY: Chicken production is holding strong – wings are steady, breasts are ticking up, and tenders dipped a bit. Demand isn't going anywhere, but will prices stay calm? Plus, we're a month Avian flu-free – can we keep the streak alive?GRAINS: Strong crops, weak exports, and tariff concerns are pushing corn, soy, and wheat lower. Prices are slipping – but is this a true bargain, or just the calm before another shakeup?PORK: The pork market's moving lower – and even bellies are along for the ride. Is this a one-week blip or the start of an early slide? We'll need another week to see where this goes.DAIRY: After weeks of slipping, butter's starting to climb again – but is it just a pause or a new trend? This week's calm might be the quiet before the next churn.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

BEEF: The summer slide continues. Ribeyes and strips are dragging the market down, and briskets and grinds are finally dipping – but don't let your guard down just yet. With production still sluggish, we've likely got a few more weeks of softness before fall starts cooking up something new.POULTRY: Demand is driving this market – wings, breasts, and tenders are all on the rise. With summer heat slowing growth and no sign of appetite cooling off, prices could keep climbing. Three Avian Flu-free weeks in a row? Let's hope the streak sticks.GRAINS: Crops look great and prices are steady – for now. With new tariffs on deck and shifting global demand, especially for soy, the calm could break. Keep your eyes peeled… August might shake things up.PORK: Bellies keep climbing – $200 is in sight – while everything else takes a breather. Butts and loins are easing down, making loins a standout value. If you're planning menus, now's the time to think pork.DAIRY: Things are calm in cheese country – just a slight move in block and barrel this week. Butter's taking the stairs down again, and it's not done dropping yet. Could be more room to melt.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

BEEF: Beef is finally cooling off—but is it enough? Strip loins and ribeyes are leading the decline, but ground beef and roasts are holding firm. With production still lagging behind last year, could this be the start of a slow slide or just a summer stall?POULTRY: Chicken remains the go-to protein, but how long can it hold? Wings are flying high on demand, breasts and tenders are steady, and production is slightly up. No new Avian Flu reports this week, which is always good news.GRAINS: Soybeans are about to stir things up. Despite strong supply and a promising crop, new demand for biofuel could send prices climbing fast. Will corn and wheat follow suit? Stay tuned.PORK: Bellies keep marching higher, and there's no sign of slowing. While other cuts ease off recent highs, bacon's sizzling summer run looks far from over – will August bring the peak, or just more heat?DAIRY: Dairy takes a dip across the board this week – but is it the bottom, or just the beginning? With block, barrel, and butter all sliding, the market may have more room to melt.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef: Beef prices are finally starting to cool after the July 4th holiday – but how fast will they fall, and which cuts will drop first? With low production still keeping things tight, we're not in freefall territory yet… but if you're buying ribeyes, strips, or grinds, you'll want to hear what's coming next.Poultry: Chicken remains the go-to protein, with wings in tight supply and prices climbing again. Breasts and tenders are steady for now – but with hot summer temps affecting animal intake and a new avian flu case on the radar, will this balanced market stay steady... or tip?Grains: Prices are down across corn, soy, and wheat, but with crops thriving in the fields and new tariffs shaking up export dynamics, how long will this calm last?Pork: Bacon lovers, brace yourselves—bellies are climbing and could hit $200 soon. But beyond bacon? The rest of the pork market is cooling off… for now.Dairy: A calm week on the dairy front—but is it the quiet before a dip? With butter holding steady and cheese prices barely budging, the market might just be gearing up for a slide.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef is still riding high – tight supply, strong demand, and prices climbing week after week. But is relief finally in sight? You might want to stock up before the July 4th smoke clears…

BEEFBeef remains pricey and hard to find – and even with harvest back up, prices are still climbing. Are we finally nearing a cooldown, or will thin meats keep leading this market higher into July?POULTRYChicken is still the go-to protein, but are we seeing the first signs of a shift? Breast prices dip slightly, tenders rise again, and wings climb – plus, a glimmer of good news on the avian flu front.GRAINSGrain markets are idling in neutral, with only slight bumps across corn, soy, and wheat. With strong supply and good weather, what would it take to finally shake these markets loose?PORKThe pork market is sizzling – bellies are on a summer run and bacon's about to get pricey. Will anything cool it down, or are we just getting started?Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

BEEF

Beef remains tight — production ticks up slightly, but grilling season and shifting demand are pushing grinds higher. Some middle meats are cooling, others still heating up.Poultry prices still split — tenders climb, breasts stay high, wings dip again. Production's up and bird flu cases stayed low this week.Grains drift down — corn and wheat slide, soy holds firm. Ethanol chatter could shake things up.Pork cools off — bellies dip, loins still a solid value, and butts barely budge. Summer could bring the heat back.Dairy bounce back — after two weeks down, prices climb again. Not a rally yet, but some upside remains.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The beef market is catching its breath, but ground beef continues to climb as shoppers trade down from pricier cuts. Could this pause be the calm before another round of increases?Chicken takes a breather this week, but there's chatter about a possible summer sandwich surge. Plus, a surprisingly quiet week on the avian flu front during peak migration season.Grain markets are stuck in a holding pattern, but talk of drought and rising oil prices could stir things up. Planting's on track – for now.Dairy prices continue to slide, with barrels, blocks, and butter all moving lower. A major change is coming in June with the USDA removing the 500# barrel from pricing formulas – something to keep an eye on.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef production remains limited as packers focus on profit over volume, keeping middle meats inflated heading into summer. Chucks and rounds are softening, while ground beef is climbing as consumers trade down. Buy early – prices aren't cooling off anytime soon.In poultry, boneless skinless breasts and tenders continue to climb, while wings drop again, making them the value buy. Production is steady at 1% above last year, which will likely continue. No new avian flu reports this week – though USDA updates have stalled, likely due to reduced services, not reduced risk.Grain markets are steady overall. Corn and wheat saw small declines, while soy is trending up with potential for more gains as palm oil tariffs push oil markets higher. Early planting is off to a strong start.Pork production is slowing slightly. Bellies climbed to $143 and could keep rising into late spring, so stocking up isn't a bad idea if you've got the freezer space. Butts and ribs are showing mild strength, while loins remain steady.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

We're back with some Spring Market Trends!Beef production remains tight at 564K head, keeping prices strong, especially for ribeyes, tenderloins, and strip loins. With Cinco de Mayo approaching, thin meats are in high demand, and waiting to buy will likely cost you more.Strong beef prices are driving up demand and prices for chicken breasts and tenders, while wings continue to drop and are now the best value. Despite peak migration season, avian flu impact was minimal this week, with 9 cases and 326K birds affected.Pork bellies are holding steady at $135, but warmer weather and reduced production could push prices higher soon. Loins remain a great value, while ribs and butts are starting their seasonal climb.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef: Tight inventories and rising demand continue to push the market higher, with last week's production dropping to 560K head. Ribeyes are climbing, while rounds and chucks are still trending down. This is a buy-now market—waiting will likely cost you more in the coming weeks.Poultry: Boneless skinless breasts and tenders are up again, while wing prices may have hit their floor. Production remains strong, running 2% ahead of last year. Avian flu reports were minimal, and shell egg prices continue to decline just in time for Easter.Pork: Pork bellies dipped slightly to $135, possibly nearing the bottom of this market. With warmer weather, production typically slows, which could push prices higher. Loins remain a great value, butts are steady, and ribs are still looking good.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Happy Spring!Beef: Warmer weather has jump-started the beef market, with strip loins and ribeyes seeing a price surge. Production is inching up, but inventories remain tight, and thin meats like flanks, sirloin flaps, and skirts will rise through Cinco de Mayo. Outside of grinds moving lower, waiting to buy could mean paying more later.Poultry: Chicken wings are dropping in price, while breasts continue to climb, and tenders remain steady. Production is up 3% from last year, but the hatch rate has dipped below the ideal 80%. Despite 11 new avian flu cases affecting 1.8 million birds – mostly egg layers – egg prices are still decreasing.Grains: Grain markets are steady, with corn up slightly and soy and wheat holding firm. Concerns are rising over U.S. export fees, which could impact shipments to China and disrupt commodity exports.Pork: Pork bellies dropped again to $137 from last week's $145, with more potential downside ahead. Loins remain a great value, while butts are holding steady after recent price increases.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Weekly beef harvests rose to 578K head from 566K last week. As the weather improves and grilling season picks up, harvests could approach 600K head. Middle meats, chucks, rounds, and grinds have likely bottomed out and are expected to climb, making now a good time to buy.Shell egg prices have dropped – not because of better availability but due to reduced demand from high prices. Avian flu reports were low this week, with only 4,800 birds affected. In chicken, boneless skinless breasts and tenders are rising, wings are declining, and YTD chicken production remains 3% higher than last year.Pork bellies dropped to $145 from last week's $153, though further declines are uncertain. Butts are gaining strength, ribs remain a good value, and loins continue to be an affordable protein option – making it a great time to feature pork.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef remains in the same pattern as previous months. Rounds, chucks, and grinds continue declining while middle meats trade sideways. There is some sign of life within thin meats, flank steak, and sirloin flaps.Poultry production and demand continue strong. Breasts and tenders are up for next week. It was the best week we've had in months on the Avian Flu front. There were 9 new reports affecting 188k birds. Eggs have hit a peak with no increase in pricing for next week.The grain market will remain unsettled while we wage a trade war.Pork bellies are down this week and all pork segments continue to be a great protein value.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef processors continue to keep production numbers down. Strip loins are moving higher while the other middle meats move lower. We've most likely seen the bottom on ribeyes and tenderloins. This pattern should hold steady in the next few weeks, waiting for warmer weather to help boost demand. Chicken production continues running about 3% over last year. Wings are down for next week while breasts and tenders move higher. On the Avian Flu beat, 14 new reports since last week affecting 3.4 million birds. With Spring migration coming soon, the virus could be carried back up North along the East Coast which could make things worse.In grains, the proposed tariffs could increase Canola oil from Canada's prices. Shifting from Canola to soy will push soy up as well. We'll keep an eye on what happens or doesn't happen.Pork bellies turned around from last week's big drop, closing at $179. No need to buy unless you just need product. Other than bacon, pork is a good move.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef harvest continues to decline which should slow price declines. The only area continuing to increase is strip loins. Other cuts should stay where they are until the weather breaks or demand picks up.Avian Flu reports show 3.3 million birds were removed last week, with 3.1 million of those being egg-laying chickens. Egg pricing will continue to be high. Fresh chicken pricing is moving higher this week, but availability is good.After the climb up, pork bellies have dropped to $136. Bacon is back on the buy side. All other segments are showing great value for the dead of winter.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Happy Valentine's Day!

Avian Flu continues to infect poultry flocks. 32 new cases were reported this week affecting 3.8 million birds. This is not a short term issue.For fresh chicken, wings and tenders are steady and breasts are up. Chicken production continues strong and a good option in protein.Beef production will be reduced for the next couple of weeks. This will keep the market tight on inventory and slow declines. Middle meats, tenderloins, and ribeyes have hit their bottom. Buy just what you need.Pork bellies close up from last week. Buy what you need, its not a favorable market to do a big buy. Loins are still a great value.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

We'll start this week with a quick recap of Avian Flu, followed by the report for the current week, and how the flock can be rebuilt.In poultry, wings and tenders are steady while breasts are up just a bit. Enjoy these prices on Super Bowl Sunday.February is a soft month for beef demand and the market is due for some correction. Middle meats have finished their declines after the holidays. Strips and grinds are moving higher and chucks and rounds have peaked for now. Buy what you need and wait to see what the next move is.Pork bellies moved higher this week. Buy what you need in bacon, the price is not attractive enough to stock up. Butts are down a few pennies, ribs look good, and loins, as always, are a great value.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Chicken production continues strong up over last year by 2%.  For the week we have steady markets on wings, boneless skinless breasts up just a bit and tenders staying steady for the week. The hatch rate is down to 78.9%, hatch rate being the percentage of eggs successfully hatched into baby chicks.  Industry goal is 80% which we have not reached in about a year.  I do expect we will see steady to higher prices on wings with football playoffs in full swing and March Madness on the horizon.  On the Avian Flu front, it just doesn't let up.  17 new cases reported affected 2.8 million birds, 2 million of those being egg layers.  One article I read notes we are about 30 Million birds short to meet demand.  This will not improve anytime soon.  Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The beef market is remarkably strong starting the year. Ribeyes and tenderloins continue to decline while chucks, rounds, and grinds continue to increase. We should see this pattern for a couple more weeks.Chicken production is up 3% over last year. Wings, breasts, and tenders are steady. This week, two million birds were removed from the food chain due to Avian Flu.Pork bellies are down just a bit and won't be moving lower any time soon. Buy if you need, but no need to go crazy. Loins are a great value in protein.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The beef market is very tight after the holidays and winter weather. We have seen steady increases in rounds, chucks, and grinds. Ribeyes and tenderloins are declining just a bit. If you need middle meats, wait to buy; with all other cuts, waiting will cost you money.Chicken production has started the year off strong. Pricing on wings, breasts, and tenders is holding steady. Expect to see modest increases over the next few weeks. We had another brutal week for Avian Flu affecting 3.4 million birds, mostly egg-laying chickens.Pork bellies are up this week and will likely continue to rise right into spring. Ribs and loins continue to be great values in protein.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Last week's holiday-shortened production of 434K head and this week's reduced schedule has tightened beef inventories to start the year. While ribeyes and tenderloins continue to decline in value, rounds, chucks, and grinds are climbing, with forecasts pointing to higher beef prices and lower per capita consumption in 2025.Chicken prices are steady, with 2024 production up 2% over 2023 and projections for stable production and slightly lower pricing in 2025. However, the avian flu outbreak remains severe, with over 17.7 million birds affected in the last 30 days and no signs of improvement.Pork bellies dropped to $112, making it a good time to buy, with prices expected to rise through winter. 2025 forecasts show increased production due to lower feed costs and steady pricing, while boneless loins, ribs, and butts remain solid values.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Beef availability could be tight for the next couple of weeks due to the holidays. If you need middle meats, wait until you need them to buy. If you need rounds, chucks, or grinds, buy now.Chicken production is strong and demand is good. Wings are moving higher for next week, while randoms and tenders are up a few pennies. 23 new cases of Avian Flu were reported last week affecting 2.4 million birds.Pork bellies are up just a little this week and this should continue all the way to Spring. Ribs and loins are a great value and butts are edging up just a bit.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The Avian Flu is a major issue worldwide. There were 22 new reports this week affecting about 2 million birds in California and the central U.S. The UN released a report citing Avian Flu in 108 countries, affecting over 500 bird species and 70 species of mammals. Worldwide, 76 people have been diagnosed.The chicken market is holding steady for the holiday week. Expect wings to go up during the height of football season.The beef market is taking the expected turn, with middle meats, strips, and ribeyes moving lower and ground, chucks, and grinds moving higher. Buy what you need. The market is shifting.The pork belly decline was pretty short. It's still a good time to buy, but we will probably see steady increases come 2025. Pork is still a great value.Dairy markets have seen steady increases, which should continue into the new year.Have a Merry Christmas!

This was the worst week of reports for the Avian Flu in years. There were 21 new reports affecting 7.5 million birds.Chicken wings moved up a few pennies, breasts are down a few, and tenders are steady. Production remains strong.Beef production is holding strong for the holidays. Buy middle meats now, waiting will cost you money. Rounds, chucks, and grinds continue to be better values right now.Grains are all a bit up this week, but still in a great position.Pork bellies are down this week, with expectations that this will move higher come January. Buy bacon now! Butts, loins, and ribs are in good supply with moderate pricing.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

It's the holiday season, and beef continues the same trends of the last few weeks. Middle meats continue to increase and chucks, rounds, and grinds continue to decline. If you need middle meats, buy now. Mexico announced to the USDA that New World Screw Worm has been found in cattle, so exports to the US will temporarily cease while that is being dealt with.The chicken market is steady and production is strong. It was another grim week for Avian Flu, with 1.2 million birds affected, including 50,000 ducks.Grains continue to be in great shape.Pork bellies are finally down where we like them. Buy now, because this market should move back higher by the end of the year. Butts, ribs, and loins continue to be great values. Why not feature pork this winter?Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

One week until Thanksgiving!

This week in beef markets is a repeat of last week, this market is shaping up to be a classic holiday market.  The middle meats, strips, ribeyes and tenderloins all moving up again next week.  Don't expect any relief on middle meat pricing until the end of the year.  This continues the advice to buy now, waiting will cost you money.  Also same as last week, moving lower chucks and rounds, briskets coming off a bit, and grinds continue lower.  With turkey taking center stage the next two weeks we may not see as middle meats moving up as fast, but they won't be coming down.  Productions holding up pretty well, 619K head harvested last week, up from 615 the week prior, still with very large animals, running 38 lbs. heavier than last year.  Episode Sources: Swine Reports | Agricultural Marketing Service (usda.gov)Barchart.com | Commodity, Stock, and Currency Quotes, Charts, News & AnalysisCheese Reporter - Cheese PricesPublication | Broiler Hatchery | ID: gm80hv35d | USDA Economics, Statistics and Market Information System (cornell.edu)Report-Estimated Weekly Meat Production Under Federal Inspection (SJ_LS712) | MMN (usda.gov)Report-National Steer & Heifer Estimated Grading Percent (NW_LS196) | MMN (usda.gov)Market News - Dairy - Home (usda.gov)2022–2024 Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (usda.gov)Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The beef market continues to increase in middle meat pricing. Rounds, chucks, and grinds are finally moving lower. Better pricing is to come.Chicken production continues strong and pricing has finally settled. This market may have more to give in the next few weeks. Six new cases of Avian Flu were reported, totaling 780k birds.Pricing on grains is up, but nothing alarming.Pork bellies closed down from last week and the rest of the pork complex is looking great.The CME is down overall this week.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Happy Halloween!

The beef complex is moving higher, almost every cut is moving higher next week, lead by middle meats, strong moves higher in ribeyes and tenderloins, strips moving higher as well.  This is the time of year to buy early, waiting will cost you money.  Beef production last week was 608K head up from the 586K the week prior.  Chucks and rounds moving higher, grinds too.  I think this will be a typical holiday season when comes to pricing, we will see increases right into mid December.  Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The CME has mellowed out for much more normal weekly numbers.Beef harvest is way down, pushing pricing higher overall. Most cuts are up for the week, so buy what you need now. Waiting will cost you money.Avian Flu is back, affecting 2.7 million egg-laying chickens, and will stick around with the colder weather. Chicken production continues strong, and pricing for the next week is down overall. Look for a few more weeks of declines.Pork bellies are up this week. Buy what you need now, there will be buying opportunities to come. The rest of the pork complex looks great. Availability is good and pricing is stable.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The decline in dairy prices continues this week, through Thursday, barrel is down 15, block is down 11 and butter is down 5, since the recent peak in late mid-September barrel has dropped 72 cents, block is down 34 and butter has dropped 38. That is a pretty major reset in just three weeks.  We may have another week or so before this market hits bottom but good value has returned to the dairy markets.  Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The dairy market broke last week and finally moved lower. Buy what you need as values will be improving.Beef production was slightly up last week. Middle meats are moving higher for the holiday season. Rounds and grinds are declining.In poultry, chicken pricing is moving lower on all cuts. It's a great time to feature chicken.The grain markets are a bit spooked by unrest in the Middle East. Everything is moving higher, but we will continue to monitor.Pork is well supplied and pricing is steady to lower. As always, pork is a great protein value.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The dairy market broke this week and all segments are down. This market is still upside down, but will hopefully correct in the next few weeks.Beef demand is better than expected. Packers need to keep pricing as high as they can. Buy what you need, though other than middle meats, pricing is looking better.Chicken production continues to climb. Pricing is moving lower on wings, random breasts, and tenders. No new Avian Flu reports this week.Pork bellies closed up this week, but we should be at the end of the push higher. Pork production is strong, and pricing is good on loins, butts, and ribs. Menu pork!Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Through Thursday barrel pricing up 18 cents totaling 41 cents over the last month, and 34 cents over the block.  That's just crazy. Block traditionally trades about 10 over the barrel so this market is just upside down.  Speaking of the block, we are actually down 2 for the week for some welcome relief from this recent run.  Hopefully with will all top out soon.  Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

Labor Day Weekend shortened beef production last week. The market is moving lower overall with a few exceptions. Buy what you need, better prices are ahead.Chicken production continues strong as chicken is the protein of choice for consumers. Wings are coming down just a bit, breasts have some strength, and tenders are in tight supply and expensive. We are at three weeks with no new Avian Flu reports.Grains are looking good.Pork bellies closed down a dollar from last week. Production is ramping up, so we should see good pricing continue.The dairy market is up again and the current run isn't done. Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The beef market saw some welcome demand going into Labor Day Weekend. Now we should see some moves lower over the next couple of weeks. Buy what you need now, but it will be cheaper if you can wait. Strip loins are the buy in middle meats.Chicken production continues strong and egg set numbers are up. Wings are moving lower again, while breasts and tenders are holding steady. Fall should shape up to be a good season for fresh chicken. No new cases of Avian Flu were reported.Export demand in grains is seeing a 38% increase which is driving the price up slightly. We're keeping an eye on a new trade war between Canada and China.Pork bellies closed slightly down from last week but should continue to move lower. Loins are moving slightly higher and butts are holding steady. As always, it's a good time to menu pork.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

The beef market is showing some strength, with ribeyes and tenderloins on the rise again for next week. Grinds have been leading the market, with chucks and rounds following suit. I'd be in a buy-just-what-you-need mode for next week as I do think things will adjust lower as we move into September.Chicken production is up 3% over last year. Wings and tenders are holding steady and breasts are moving higher. No new cases of Avian Flu were reported this week.Grain harvest has begun and everything is still looking great. Experts are wondering just how big this year's corn crop will be.Pork bellies are down a dollar this week and I think there is more downside to come. Loins, butts, and hams are all great values this week. Production is heading higher coming out of summer, so continue to menu pork.Dairy was a wild ride this week but settled with a small swing up.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn