Why are ground beef prices in the US increasing?

• The cost of ground beef in the US has reached a record high, increasing by approximately 12 percent from June 2024 to June 2025.
• This surge, which sees prices rise from $5.47 to $6.12 per pound, challenges President Trump's pledge to reduce grocery costs.
• Key factors contributing to the price hike include shrinking cattle herds, severe drought conditions, and an increase in beef imports.
• Experts note the beef market's complexity compared to other foodstuffs like eggs, with growing competition from countries such as Australia and Latin America.
• The American Farm Bureau Federation reports US cattle herd sizes are at a 74-year low, exacerbated by increased animal feed costs due to drought.

IN FULL

Where’s the relief? Ground beef prices hit record-high of $6.12 per pound