WASHINGTON — With the summer grilling season gearing up toward full-swing, economists with the American Farm Bureau Federation have been providing analysis for meat offerings and consumer costs.
Meat sales last year reached $112 billion, AFBF notes, along with more than 98 percent of U.S. households buying meat daily for their meals, adding that the USDA is forecasting increased consumption for chicken, beef and pork for this year.
“Chicken stands out as the most accessible option, with steady production growth and modest prices helping it maintain its place as America’s most-consumed protein,” AFBF Market Intel reported in its recent announcement. “Beef remains the centerpiece of many cookouts, but record-high prices and historically tight cattle inventories continue to challenge both consumers and producers. Pork offers relative value and stability, supported by efficient production and strong export markets, even as producers navigate ongoing disease risks.”
According to USDA estimates regarding chicken, approximately 42.2 billion pounds will be purchased this year, which is a 46 million pounds increase from last year.
“The overall prices of chicken fell in April by 0.7 percent compared to April 2025,” AFBF said. “Boneless chicken breasts in U.S. cities cost an average of $4.17 per pound in April, down a penny from the same time last year. Poultry flocks continue to recover from avian influenza, which has helped to control price increases.”
The federation’s analysis adds that beef retail prices set a record in April at $9.64 per pound, which is an increase of 13 percent from 2025. These prices continue to stay up based on the smallest U.S. cattle herd in 75 years, along with continued strong demand. There have also been years of drought, increased operating costs and lowered income since the pandemic, Farm Bureau added.
Pork prices increased 2.3 percent from April 2026 compared to April 2025, the report states. The average retail pork price in April this year was $4.33 per pound, with pork chops being the most popular cut.
“Home-grown meat continues to be a staple for America’s families,” Zippy Duvall, AFBF president, said in the report release. “Despite higher prices at the grocery store, families trust America’s farmers and ranchers to grow the food that is put on the grill and on dinner tables across the country. We urge the administration and Congress to prioritize ranchers as they rebuild herds so they can continue to meet the needs of the nation’s families.”
On the horizon, AFBF will release its annual 4th of July Marketbasket report on June 26 and provide its insights into how much current meat prices will affect the holiday’s cookouts. The federation adds that for a money-saving suggestion, retailers usually increase promotional sales as holidays get closer.
