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Story summary
- Texas pitmasters warn droughts, thinning cattle, and supply delays are driving up beef prices and squeezing restaurant profits.
- A USDA report shows U.S. cattle inventory at a 75-year low, with 86.2 million cattle as of January 1, 2026.
- Small ranchers, who make up 85% of U.S. farms, are particularly affected and fear they may not survive rising costs.
- If prices continue to rise, Texas barbecue traditions could be at risk.
