– Josh Maples, Assistant Professor & Extension Economist, Department of Agricultural Economics, Mississippi State University
Fed cattle weights continue to push higher amid tighter supplies. As shown on the chart below, fed cattle dressed weights have increased over time. Technological advances in raising cattle as well as genetic advances have allowed the sector to produce more beef per head. The chart above shows there have been a few years of declining weights and some strong seasonal patterns within years; but, the general trend is increasing cattle weights over time.
Larger weights over the past year have boosted beef supplies to offset fewer head processed. The total head processed (including fed cattle, culls, and calves) in 2024 was 3 percent below 2023. However, beef production in 2024 was equal to 2023. A similar trend is shaping up so far in 2025 with beef production through April roughly equal to a year ago despite fewer head. Assuming a 62.5 percent average dressing percentage, a 950 pound dressed weight would equal a 1,520 pound live weight.
Another interesting (and related) trend is that of quality grades over time. The chart below shows the percentages of fed cattle grading Prime, Choice, and Select since 1998. Choice carcasses represented about 50-55 percent of the cattle in the 2000s but have been more recently been hovering in the 75 percent range. Genetic improvements, cow-calf and stocker management practices, and feedlot technologies have played roles in this increase. It is also worth noting the more recent increase in carcasses grading prime. About 3-4 percent of cattle graded prime in the 2000s compared to 10-12 percent in recent years. For the past few weeks, more cattle have graded prime than select. The chart below shows the general trend has been decreasing select cattle since 2007.
