US red meat production down 9% in January 2004
Beef production, at 1.92 billion pounds, was 16% below the previous year. Cattle slaughter declined 14% to 2.57 million head and the average live weight fell 19 pounds to 1,249 pounds.
Veal production declined 10% to 16.0 million pounds, calf slaughter fell 16% to 79,000 head, while the average live weight increased 18 pounds to 336 pounds.
Pork production rose 1% to 1.76 billion pounds and hog kill increased slightly to 8.79 million head. The average live weight was up 1 pound to 269 pounds.
Lamb and mutton production declined 3% to 15.4 million pounds, sheep slaughter fell 8% to 219,200 head while the average live weight was 141 pounds.
January 2003 contained 23 weekdays (including two holidays) and 4 Saturdays.
January 2004 contained 22 weekdays (including two holidays) and 5 Saturdays.
