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Beef Prices Jump 13% Threaten Texas BBQs, Probe Initiated

5/25/2026

35 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Texas BBQs Struggle

Beef hit $9.64 per pound in April, a 13 % rise, threatening Texas barbecue owners.
Russell Roegels, Houston BBQ restaurateur, pays $5.56 per pound for brisket and warns a bad week could close his business.
Ken Paxton opened a probe on May 15 into the meat-packing firms that control over 85 % of U.S. beef processing.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration delayed a cut to meat import tariffs while officials debate curbing beef costs.

Summary

USDA Cattle Decline

USDA says national cattle inventory is at its lowest in over 70 years.
Craig Bieber, president of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, says imports may be needed because lean trim is scarce.
Neil Luken of Luken Meats and Kristin McGrath recommend whole chicken to save about 20% versus pre-cut and replacing beef with turkey or pork, which are about 30% cheaper per pound.

History

Historical Context

In October 1973 OAPEC’s oil embargo triggered a sharp rise in petroleum prices, with U.S. barrel costs climbing nearly 300% by early 1974. The shock forced President Richard Nixon’s administration to impose emergency price controls and spurred long-term supply-chain reforms that still shape commodity markets. Today Texas barbecue restaurateur Russell Roegels faces a 13% beef price jump, echoing those historic pressures.

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Texas BBQs Struggle

Beef hit $9.64 per pound in April, a 13 % rise, threatening Texas barbecue owners.
Russell Roegels, Houston BBQ restaurateur, pays $5.56 per pound for brisket and warns a bad week could close his business.
Ken Paxton opened a probe on May 15 into the meat-packing firms that control over 85 % of U.S. beef processing.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration delayed a cut to meat import tariffs while officials debate curbing beef costs.

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