American families are being crushed by skyrocketing beef prices that have surged 14.7% in just one year, while ranchers face a devastating perfect storm of drought, soaring costs, and the smallest cattle herd since 1951.
Story Highlights
Beef prices jumped 14.7% from September 2024 to 2025, nearly five times the overall food inflation rate
America’s cattle herd has shrunk to its smallest size since 1951, creating severe supply shortages
Rancher input costs have exploded over 50% in five years, squeezing family farms nationwide
Drought conditions and international trade disruptions are worsening the crisis for consumers
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