The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled its 2025 projections for chicken meat production, signaling continued growth and resilience in the poultry sector. According to the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, broiler production is expected to reach an impressive 47.5 billion pounds in 2025. This forecast underscores the industry’s ability to sustain growth despite ongoing challenges such as avian influenza outbreaks and fluctuating feed costs.
The report highlights the poultry sector’s adaptability and stability, noting that production gains in recent years have laid a strong foundation for future growth. Despite market uncertainties, the industry has demonstrated remarkable consistency in meeting demand and overcoming supply chain disruptions.
However, price forecasts present a more complex scenario. The USDA has slightly revised its 2025 broiler price projection downward to $1.27 per pound, compared to the previous estimate of $1.29 per pound for 2024. This adjustment reflects unexpectedly strong prices seen in mid-2024, which influenced pricing trends moving into early 2025. Meanwhile, turkey prices are also projected to face continued pressure. The USDA lowered its 2024 turkey price forecast to 94.2 cents per pound, with a modest rebound expected in 2025 to $1.05 per pound. This downward adjustment is attributed to softer-than-expected demand and weaker market conditions.
Conversely, egg prices are expected to remain elevated through 2024, with forecasts rising to $2.71 per dozen in the second half of the year. Tight supplies and robust demand are driving this trend. Looking ahead to 2025, egg prices are anticipated to ease to $1.75 per dozen but will still hover above historical averages.
In summary, the USDA’s outlook for 2025 paints a picture of a dynamic poultry industry. While broiler and turkey prices may face downward adjustments, egg prices are expected to remain relatively firm before moderating. The sector’s capacity to balance production growth with fluctuating market conditions reinforces its critical role in U.S. agriculture.
Overall, the poultry industry remains well-positioned for steady growth, showcasing its resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing economic landscape.
