Alerts & What’s Trending
Produce
Markets held steady after recent volatility. Iceberg lettuce and roma tomatoes were stable, though romas are expected to rise through fall. Potatoes remain quiet, suggesting the pre-harvest rally is behind us.
Outlook: Watch for typical seasonal price runups in September and October, particularly on lettuce and tomatoes, while potatoes could soften further into year-end.
Grains
The USDA’s WASDE report brought a bearish surprise for corn with yield projections raised sharply, while soybeans turned bullish. Corn production outlooks surged well above trade expectations, creating a heavy supply picture.
Outlook: Corn prices face extended headwinds from burdensome supply, while soybeans may see firmer footing given tighter balance sheets.
Dairy
Cheese markets were mixed, with blocks easing but barrels slightly higher. Butter was the biggest mover, falling on soft foodservice demand as cream supplies loosen. Milk production remains seasonally low but adequate.
Outlook: Cheese demand from retail should lend support, but butter markets may remain pressured until holiday baking season kicks in.
Beef
The cattle market pulled back sharply, but beef cutouts were higher heading into the Labor Day holiday. Middle meats like tenderloins and ribeyes saw strong demand, while ground beef and trim markets were mixed. End cuts held firm with broad strength across chucks and rounds.
Outlook: Holiday demand should keep premium cuts supported, with tenderloins and ribs gaining counter-seasonal strength as operators prepare for year-end menus.
Pork
Hog futures and cash hogs were mixed, with butts and ribs finding support from international sales. Tenderloins were also stronger, while hams and loins trended lower. Trim values were steady to softer.
Outlook: Near-term pork values look mixed-to-lower, with additional weakness expected next month as global trade uncertainty and tariffs cloud the outlook.
Poultry
Harvest volumes remain consistent, but the market is showing signs of moderation. Whole birds dipped, while boneless/skinless breasts edged higher. Wings are climbing month-over-month but remain well below last year’s levels. Turkey and egg markets were mixed, with eggs trending lower year-over-year.
Outlook: Expect steadier volumes, though new tariff pressures could weigh on export demand and add downward pricing pressure in the months ahead.
Seafood
Fresh Atlantic salmon prices fell sharply, hitting a four-year low after months of decline. Prices are now down nearly 20% in just three months. Import volumes remain high, keeping pressure on the market.
Outlook: Losses may slow, but meaningful recovery is unlikely until salmon hits its seasonal floor in October–November.