Northwest Iowa — After a few down years, pork and beef production are doing much better here in northwest Iowa, and elsewhere, than they have been. In one recent week, the two meats together reached an all-time production high, which pushes prices down.
Iowa State University Livestock Economist Lee Schulz says the various meats are always competing for consumer food dollars. But this holiday season, beef may have an edge over Christmas hams or turkeys.
He suggests more families may choose prime rib for their big Christmas meal.
Low prices aren’t good news for area farmers and ranchers, but Schulz says producers remain optimistic – especially on the pork side – as Iowa prepares for two new slaughterhouses to come on line.
