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(New York, NY) — Summertime is normally prime time for grilling, but this year cookouts are costing a little more. The latest numbers show beef prices have climbed to record highs, at just north of six dollars a pound. Texas A&M livestock economist, David Anderson says he has been watching prices rise as feed prices go up, thanks to a three -year drought that has dried out pastures and raised the cost of feed. Anderson says those costs are being passed onto consumers, and that is being seen in supermarkets across the country this summer.
The number of beef cattle in the U.S. is at its lowest since 1961. The USDA has also halted imports of cattle from Mexico over concerns about a parasitic fly. President Trump’s 50-percent tariffs on Brazil set to start next month could drive up prices even more, as the South American country is a major supplier.
Demand for beef is up as too, as Americans have been seeking out healthier foods that are not processed.
