US reports record shortage levels in its cattle herd
The U.S. cattle herd saw a 1.3% decline in head numbers, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) July Livestock Report .
Although this reduction was smaller than expected, the national figures still reflect a historic low for cows and calves. According to the report, the country has 94.2 million head of cattle, including feedlot and dairy cattle.
Since 2020, this indicator has shown an average decline of 0.6%, and while these reductions have not increased significantly, experts doubt that this represents a turning point for the American herd.
The number of feedlot cattle currently stands at 28.7 million, down 1.2% from the same period in 2024 and the lowest figure recorded for July in more than 30 years. Economist Ken Goldman stated that while the national livestock industry is "optimistic" about the herd's recovery, the indices do not show a positive trend.
He added that while these declines appear to be decreasing, there are fewer cattle compared to previous years, which could reduce the beef supply in the near future.
In 2025, the price of these American meats will have reached historic highs, after ranchers reduced their herds as a result of a prolonged drought that has reduced grazing land.
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