In June 2026, U.S. poultry production rose slightly despite slower slaughter rates, as heavier bird weights offset reduced throughput. Chickens averaged 6.67 pounds and turkeys 33.8 pounds, pushing total output to 4.466 billion pounds, up 1% year-over-year.
Output Growth Despite Slower Slaughter
In June 2026, poultry certified wholesome under federal inspection totaled 4.466 billion pounds, a 1% increase compared to June 2025. Chickens averaged 6.67 pounds per bird, while turkeys averaged 33.8 pounds, both heavier than last year. This weight gains compensated for fewer birds processed, sustaining overall production growth1.
Slower Processing Rates
Slaughter numbers declined compared to June 2025. Chickens totaled 803.7 million head, while turkeys reached 14.3 million head, both lower year-over-year. This slowdown reflects operational challenges in plant efficiency. However, genetic improvements and feeding strategies have enabled producers to deliver heavier birds, offsetting reduced head counts.
Year-to-Date Trends
From January through June 2026, total poultry production reached 22.5 billion pounds, a 4% increase over the same period in 2025. This indicates that despite slower processing, the industry remains on track for higher annual output. The USDA will release updated projections on July 10, 2026, which will provide further clarity on production expectations for the remainder of the year2.
Market Implications
Heavier weights contribute to supply stability, ensuring processors and retailers maintain consistent product availability. Economically, this supports stable pricing in the poultry market, even as plants face throughput challenges. For consumers, the result is steady access to chicken and turkey products, minimizing disruptions in retail supply chains. USDA’s June 2026 outlook also noted that broiler production forecasts were raised, while prices were adjusted lower, reflecting strong supply but moderate market values3.
Conclusion
The June 2026 data underscore a critical balancing act in poultry production: slower processing rates are being offset by heavier bird weights, sustaining overall output growth. This dynamic highlights the importance of genetics, nutrition, and management practices in maintaining industry resilience. With USDA projections due in mid-July, stakeholders will soon know whether this trend can continue through the rest of the year.
Sources:
1. Heavier weights offset slower poultry processing in May (2026).