Cattle prices weigh on Tyson’s results
US-based food group Tyson has reported flat third-quarter sales of $13.9 billion, and has adjusted its annual operating income downwards as high cattle prices offset the increased prices it is charging for beef.
Strong sales in other segments, such as chicken, have helped to buoy results.
Donnie King, CEO of Tyson Foods, said: "We delivered strong third quarter results, fuelled by continued strength in our chicken and prepared foods segments, with seven consecutive quarters of growth in chicken and continued market share gains by our iconic brands.
“These results reflect the power of our differentiated multi-protein portfolio, strong customer partnerships and focus on operational excellence.”
For fiscal 2026, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicated US protein production (beef, pork, chicken and turkey) will increase 1% compared to fiscal 2025 levels.
However, due to tight cattle supplies, beef production is expected to fall 3%. This has led to Tyson expecting a loss in its beef sector of between $650 million and $500 million in fiscal 2026.
This summer, Tyson has replaced both its CEO and chief operating officer.
