Poultry
Chicken production stayed strong last week, coming in 3.5% higher than this time last year. Prices continued to fall for most chicken parts — breasts dropped $0.05 to $1.14/lb and wings were down $0.07 to $1.10/lb. Thighs also dipped, but they’re still slightly above the five-year average. On the turkey side, prices are holding firm: boneless turkey breasts are still more than triple what they were a year ago, and whole turkeys are up 60%. Egg prices stayed steady for now.
Outlook: Chicken prices are likely to stay low for a bit longer thanks to higher production. Turkey could tighten up, though, as new bird flu cases may affect supply heading into the holidays.
Beef
Beef prices steadied last week after several weeks of declines. Premium cuts like striploins rose above $9/lb for the first time since summer, and ground beef moved up to $3.45/lb. Tenderloins dropped slightly, while chuck and sirloin cuts gained a few cents.
Outlook: Expect beef prices—especially for tenderloins, ribeyes, and other holiday cuts—to rise through the end of the year as demand picks up. Consider reviewing portion sizes or menu pricing before the holidays to protect margins.
Pork
Pork prices were mixed. Loins and ribs saw small gains, but hams and picnics softened, pulling the overall market slightly lower. Butts and bellies were mostly flat. Exports slowed down, which helped keep prices in check domestically.
Outlook: Pork prices could slip a bit more in the short term before leveling off. If you use a lot of ham or bacon, watch for potential savings opportunities in the coming weeks.
Seafood
Shrimp prices have stayed mostly flat this year, showing little of the volatility seen in other seafood categories. Supply and demand are balanced, and prices are holding steady.
Outlook: Shrimp could see a slight seasonal bump later this year before settling again in early 2026. Expect pricing stability through the rest of Q4—ideal for operators planning holiday menus or promotions.
Produce
Lettuce prices jumped another 16% last week due to tight supply out west, with iceberg expected to hit nearly $40/carton before prices cool off next month. Tomatoes stayed lower than usual around $10/carton, though weather issues in Mexico could bump prices up slightly.
Outlook: Expect lettuce to stay pricey through mid-November before dropping again. Tomato prices should stay fairly steady unless weather delays harvests further south.
Dairy
Dairy prices were mixed. Butter fell to $1.63/lb as producers focused on retail demand for the holidays. Cheese prices inched up, with blocks and barrels both closing at $1.77/lb. Milk production remains strong across most regions, which should help keep supplies stable.
Outlook: Expect butter prices to stay firm through the holidays, while milk and cheese prices hold mostly steady. Retail demand is still driving the dairy market more than foodservice.
Grains
Grain prices saw a small bump after a better-than-expected September crush report. Soybeans stayed near $10/bu and wheat gained slightly. Ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China continue to create some uncertainty in the grain market.
Outlook: Soybeans are expected to hover around $10–$10.30 for now. Feed costs should stay relatively stable in the short term, offering some relief for protein buyers.
