Welcome to your essential weekly update on the meat and seafood market! This space is dedicated to providing chefs with timely insights into market trends, helping you navigate the ever-changing landscape of food costs and availability. Stay informed and ahead of the curve to expertly plan your menus and maintain your restaurant’s competitive edge.
Meat & Seafood Market Report
MEAT MARKET UPDATE
UPDATED March 13, 2025
Beef Market:
Beef prices are staying exceptionally high this month as supplies remain tight across the U.S.—the national cattle herd has dropped to its lowest level since the 1950s, pushing feeder and live cattle prices into record territory and keeping pressure on everyone down the supply chain. On the wholesale side, boxed beef values are climbing faster than usual for this time of year, already up more than 9% since January thanks to strong demand heading into grilling season, especially for popular middle meats like strips and ribeyes. In short: tight cattle supplies + strong seasonal demand = elevated beef costs likely sticking around, so kitchens can expect continued pressure on margins and may want to lean on menu mix flexibility whenever possible.
Pork Market:
Pork markets are showing a bit of upward momentum this month as hog values trend higher, supported by strong slaughter activity and steady demand from packers looking to secure supply. USDA outlooks also point to slightly increased pork production early in the year, with producer returns expected to improve modestly compared to last year as domestic and international demand remains firm. In the cut‑by‑cut picture, loins and tenderloins are holding fairly steady to slightly stronger, while ribs and bellies remain mixed but generally follow seasonal patterns heading into spring. Overall, kitchens can expect pork costs to feel somewhat elevated but still manageable, with some typical seasonal bumps as grilling weather approaches.
Chicken Market:
The chicken market is holding fairly steady as we move through early March, with breast meat and tenders staying stable, thighs showing a bit of renewed strength, and jumbo wings easing slightly as they search for a new baseline. Hatchery data is pointing in a positive direction, with both egg sets and chick placements running slightly ahead of last year, which suggests supplies should remain dependable heading into spring. At the same time, USDA projections for 2026 show broiler production growth being dialed back a bit due to slower expansion and increased competition abroad, though overall price expectations remain fairly steady for now. Kitchens should expect a generally stable chicken supply with some modest seasonal firmness in popular cuts as warmer‑weather demand ramps up.
Looking for specific information on the meat market? Contact our team today.
SEAFOOD MARKET UPDATE
Scallops: The scallop market is on the rise nationwide, but we’re working with our suppliers to keep pricing competitive.
Check out our seasonality chart below and read more about seafood seasonality here.
