Increasing New World Screwworm cases in Texas are widening the risk area, keeping pressure on cattle health and movement as eradication efforts slowly progress
The USDA reports 20 total detected New World Screwworm cases in the United States
With cases contained but ongoing risk, the USDA is investing heavily in surveillance, sterile fly production and new technologies to prevent New World screwworm from threatening US cattle herds
Officials are emphasizing early detection and strict biosecurity protocols to prevent the spread of New World screwworm, a parasite capable of rapidly devastating herds
Ongoing uncertainty around screwworm underscores how animal health threats can quickly alter marketing decisions, trade flows and price direction
A high-stakes antitrust investigation into major packers raises concerns over pricing mechanisms and could have significant implications for cattle marketing and contracts
Persistent dryness in key US regions is raising concerns about forage availability, potentially slowing heifer retention and causing delay in rebuilding the herd
US beef demand has reached its strongest level in four decades, with consumers choosing beef despite higher prices
Limited processing capacity could back up cattle supplies while supporting boxed beef prices
Industry leaders say false claims of a new cattle disease highlight how misinformation can disrupt markets, undermine producer confidence and threaten consumer trust
Workers at the JBS beef plant in Greeley, Colorado could strike as early as March 16 after contract talks stall. The facility employs about 3,800 workers and is one of the largest beef processing plants in the United States.