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Summer Cookouts Face Higher Costs Amid Rising Beef Prices

4/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rising energy prices due to Middle East conflicts are expected to raise U.S. summer cookout costs.
Beef prices rose from $8.70 in March 2025 to $10.08 in March 2026, up 16%.
The U.S. cattle herd is the smallest in 75 years, tightening supply amid rising costs and an aging ranching workforce.
Even if energy prices fall, beef prices may not follow quickly, leaving consumers with higher grilling costs this summer.

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Story summary

Rising energy prices due to Middle East conflicts are expected to raise U.S. summer cookout costs.
Beef prices rose from $8.70 in March 2025 to $10.08 in March 2026, up 16%.
The U.S. cattle herd is the smallest in 75 years, tightening supply amid rising costs and an aging ranching workforce.
Even if energy prices fall, beef prices may not follow quickly, leaving consumers with higher grilling costs this summer.