Gotta Get Down on Pi Day

Last week's beef harvest dropped to 583K, continuing a trend of reduced production with some major packers operating only four days a week. Expect another week below 600K. Shortages are driving prices up, particularly for strip loins, top rounds, sirloin flap, and skirt steaks, while brisket prices are expected to decrease after St. Patrick's Day.Chicken production is up from last year, but demand remains high with no signs of decline. Prices for chicken products, including wings, breasts, and tenderloins, are expected to increase next week. Concerns arise over a hatch rate below 80% in the past month, while three new cases of Avian Flu affecting 31,500 birds, mostly turkeys, serve as a reminder of ongoing risks.Bellies closed slightly higher at $124 but with plentiful supply, a significant market increase seems unlikely. Butts stabilized after export-driven price hikes, while sold-out hams due to an early Easter may lead to a market decrease, leaving loins as the best protein value.Savalfoods.com | Find us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn