Farmers Hot Line Sparks National Conversation on “The Big 4” and the Price of Beef
Farmers Hot Line’s viral posts spark national debate on beef packer consolidation, rancher profits, herd decline and calls for a DOJ investigation.
Over the past week, Farmers Hot Line — part of Catalyst Communications Network — struck a chord with rural America.
Our recent Facebook posts, “The Big 4” and “The Price of Beef: The President Comes Knocking,” reached hundreds of thousands of people nationwide (went viral) and ignited a long-overdue discussion about who really profits from the American beef industry.
The Beef Bottleneck
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service, roughly 85% of all U.S. steer and heifer slaughter now flows through just four companies: Tyson Foods, JBS USA, Cargill Inc. and National Beef Packing Company.
Fifty years ago, those same four would have handled closer to a quarter of the nation’s beef.
That kind of consolidation means fewer buyers for ranchers, less competition in pricing and a widening profit gap between the pasture and the grocery store.
In the 1970s, ranchers took home nearly 60 cents of every beef dollar spent by consumers. Today, that share has fallen to around 36 cents.
Shrinking Herds, Rising Costs
The U.S. cattle herd sits at 86.7 million head as of January 1, 2025, the smallest since 1951 (USDA NASS).
Drought, soaring feed prices and land costs have all played a role in shrinking supply — but while ranchers face record expenses, beef prices in stores remain near record highs.
The Investigation
President Donald Trump recently called on the Department of Justice to investigate the “Big Four” meatpacking companies for potential price-fixing, collusion and market manipulation (Associated Press, Reuters).
It’s a move many in the cattle industry have been praying for — not for politics’ sake, but for the chance at a level playing field.
Why It Matters
When four corporations dominate 85% of an industry that feeds the nation, it affects everyone — from the rancher on the range to the family at the dinner table.
This isn’t just about steak prices. It’s about fairness, transparency and the long-term stability of America’s food supply.
Catalyst Communications: Telling the Stories That Move America
These viral posts are part of Catalyst Communications Network’s ongoing effort to be an all-encompassing communications company for the industries that keep America moving — agriculture, manufacturing and construction.
Through our publications and platforms, we’re committed to telling the stories that matter most to the people who build, grow and power this country.
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