U.S. Meat Production
Sets October Record

WASHINGTON —(USDA)— October commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 3.83 billion pounds, a new record high for the month. Production was up one percent from the previous high set in October 1995. October 1996 contained one more work day than in 1995. January through October red meat production was 36.3 billion pounds, up slightly from the comparable period a year earlier.

Beef production, at 2.18 billion pounds, was virtually unchanged from October 1995. Slaughter was up two percent at 3.15 million head, but average liveweight was down 13 pounds from the previous year at 1176 pounds. Accumulated beef production was up two percent.

Veal production totaled 34 million pounds, up 26 percent from a year earlier. Calf slaughter totaled 165,000 head, up 28 percent. The average liveweight was down six pounds to 355 pounds. Accumulated veal production was up 20 percent.

Pork production, at 1.59 billion pounds, was up one percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 8.59 million head, up one percent, and average liveweight was up one pound to 256 pounds. Accumulated pork production was down three percent.

Lamb and mutton production, at 23 million pounds, was up four percent from October 1995. Slaughter totaled 377,300 head, up two percent from a year earlier. The average liveweight was up two pounds to 125 pounds. Accumulated lamb and mutton production was down seven percent.