arket. June lean hog contracts on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) fell by 0.35 cent to close at 99 cents per pound.
In contrast, the cattle complex posted gains fueled by strong boxed beef prices and robust consumer demand ahead of seasonal holidays. CME June live cattle futures climbed 2.55 cents to 213.65 cents per pound, while August feeder cattle rose 2 cents to 298.90 cents per pound.
According to analysts, meatpackers are bidding aggressively in the cash cattle market to secure supply, despite elevated cattle prices. Austin Schroeder of Brugler Marketing & Management noted, “Feedlots currently hold significant leverage, and boxed beef strength reflects ongoing consumer demand.”
USDA data showed Monday afternoon increases in beef prices, with choice boxed beef up 67 cents to $343.57 per cwt and select cuts rising $2.72 to $328.07 per cwt.
Meanwhile, Tyson Foods reported weaker-than-expected quarterly sales, with beef demand softening as consumers react to higher average prices—up 8.2% year-over-year—by shifting to more affordable proteins like chicken. Tyson maintained its annual revenue outlook despite the dip in beef sales, which impacted its stock price.
On the processing side, USDA estimates 480,000 hogs were slaughtered Friday, up 4% from the same time last year, while cattle slaughter came in at 87,000 head, a notable 27% drop from a year ago.
As the industry heads into key demand periods like Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, seasonal trends could play a role in supporting meat markets moving forward.
