U.S. commercial red meat production in April totaled a record 4.30 billion pounds, up 14 percent from the 3.75 billion pounds produced in April 2007, according to USDA's monthly livestock slaughter report.

Beef production, at 2.25 billion pounds, was 12 percent above the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.96 million head, up 10 percent from April 2007. The average live weight was up 24 pounds from the previous year, at 1,259 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.02 billion pounds, up 18 percent from the previous year. Hog kill totaled 9.99 million head, up 18 percent from April 2007. The average live weight was down 1 pound from the previous year, at 269 pounds.

January to April 2008 commercial red meat production was 16.8 billion pounds, up 8 percent from 2007. Accumulated beef production was up 5 percent from last year while, pork was up 13 percent.

April 2008 contained 22 weekdays (including no holidays) and four Saturdays. April 2007 contained 21 weekdays (including no holidays) and four Saturdays.

By Janie Gabbett on 5/26/2008 for Meatingplace.com