U.S. Meat Output Declining

WASHINGTON - Apr 10/07 - SNS -- Meat production in the United States will be lower than initially thought in the face of a general decline in meat output levels, according to the latest projections from the USDA's World Agricultural Outlook Board.

Reductions in forecast beef production reflect both the slow pace of movement through feedlots and expected lighter slaughter weights.

Although pork production is raised for the first quarter due to heavy March slaughter, pork production forecasts for subsequent quarters are adjusted to reflect the March 30 Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report. First half farrowings are expected to be about the same as last year, and coupled with lower- than-expected growth in pigs per litter and smaller pig crops, hog slaughter and pork production forecasts are reduced.

Broiler production forecasts are lowered to reflect less slaughter and lighter weights. Lower production is expected to carry through the first half of the year before rebounding but at a slower pace than previously expected. Turkey and egg production forecasts are raised slightly.

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