The USDA has lowered its outlook for 2021 commercial red meat production, while increasing expectations for federally inspected poultry.

Beef production is estimated at 27.872 billion pounds, down 33 million from July due to lighter carcass weights because of higher non-fed cattle slaughter, with an average steer price of $121.20 per hundredweight, up $2 on the month, with lower exports against higher imports and per capita consumption.

Pork is pegged at 27.824 billion pounds, 327 million under a month ago because of a slower slaughter pace and lighter weights, with an average barrow and gilt price of $69.70 per hundredweight, $.30 higher, lower exports and consumption, and slightly higher imports.

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