USDA Beef/Cattle Outlook: February 2022

Forward-looking note: this summary may reference forecasts, estimates, or market expectations for informational purposes and is not indicative of future results.

The February USDA outlook reported the Jan. 1 cattle inventory at 91.902 million head, 2% lower than the previous year. Beef cows declined significantly, especially in drought‑affected states like South Dakota and Texas. Placements of lightweight cattle were up, but overall calf supplies are tightening. The report forecast 2022 beef production at 27.375 billion lb and expected higher prices for fed and feeder cattle.

Those forward-looking statements are not indicative of future results and should be reviewed with the original source, current disclosures, and the risk of loss in mind.

Reader context

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Why this update matters

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What to review next

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