U.S. Meat Output Still Rising

WASHINGTON - Mar 11/08 - SNS -- The forecast for total 2008 U.S. meat production is raised primarily reflecting higher first quarter production forecasts for all major meats, according to the latest supply and demand forecasts from the USDA's World Agricultural Outlook Board.

Beef production is raised due to stronger-than-expected cow slaughter. The pork production forecast for the first quarter is raised as hog slaughter is expected to remain large in March. USDA will release its Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report on March 28, which will provide further insight into producer farrowing decisions for 2008.

Poultry production forecasts are raised. Production for both broiler and turkey meat in January was large, and hatch data point to relatively large expansion into the second quarter. However, high feed prices and steadily weakening broiler prices during the year are expected to result in slower broiler production expansion in the second half of the year than forecast last month.

Egg production is reduced slightly for early 2008 as the industry has not responded as rapidly as expected to egg price increases. Prior year production estimates for red meat, poultry, and eggs are adjusted to reflect recent slaughter and production revisions.

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