March Poultry Production Up 3% on Year

4.223 billion pounds of poultry were certified wholesome in March 2025, up 3% from March 2024.  The USDA says that included 3.831 billion pounds of chicken, 4% higher than last year, with turkey at 381.283 million pounds, 7% lower.

The chicken slaughter rose 3% to 774.623 million head and the average live weight was 1% heavier at 6.55 pounds per bird, canceling out a 5% drop in the turkey slaughter to 14.68 million head and a 1% loss in that average live weight at 32.72 pounds per bird.

For 2025 to date, poultry production is slightly behind the 2024 pace at 12.859 billion pounds, with a 1% increase in chicken against a 10% decrease for turkey.

The USDA’s updated annual poultry production projection should be out May 12^th.

EDITOR’S TAKE:

A mixed bag as far as poultry output year-over-year. It appears chicken production is showing a slight gain with both the number of head and weight per animal. At the same time, turkey production is trending lower. Good news for chicken lovers, but a signal that turkey prices may be going higher. Everyone is hopeful that production will soon increase for both species and retail prices will stabilize or recede to lower levels. As the recovery from recent bird flu outbreaks continues, be sure to include poultry producers in your area in any promotions or advertising targeted to farmers/ranchers. A good way to start is by placing your inventory on AgTruckTrader.com®. It is aimed specifically at farmers/ranchers and brings in warm leads for your team to pursue.