Why Your Summer Cookout Is Costing More Than Ever

Some reporting may lead you to believe that prices are going down, but Michiganders will tell you otherwise. We’re getting bombarded with increased car prices, rising tech costs, and grocery bills that haven’t eased in years.

Inflation and Tariffs Still Causing Ripples

The COVID-19 pandemic started a snowball effect that triggered inflation, supply chain delays, and price surges. On top of that, animal disease outbreaks have affected the supply of meat and poultry. Now, new tariffs—changing by the day—are leaving business owners at home and abroad uncertain about the future of the American business climate.

READ MORE: Mundy Township Mega Site Halted Due to Tariffs?

The latest blow? Droughts across the United States are wreaking havoc on the American cattle industry. These extreme weather patterns are hammering cattle farmers, who are already battling stiff competition from imported beef and meat products.

Get our free mobile app

While beef lands on most Americans' grills during the summer, brace yourself if you’re the one footing the bill. The government reports the average price for a pound of beef is now a record-setting $6.12 per pound—a 10.8% increase from this time last year.

Weather Woes Hit Michigan and Midwest Cattle Farmers Hard

Despite fluctuating tariffs and global competition, American beef farmers are struggling to maintain reasonable prices and meet demand. In fact, one major U.S. retailer has taken matters into its own hands.

Walmart Takes Control of Its Beef Supply

Walmart recently opened a new beef processing facility in Olathe, Kansas, designed to work directly with local farmers and suppliers.

Tyson Foods Sounds the Alarm on Beef Crisis

Another major player, Tyson Foods, is also sounding the alarm. CEO Donnie King said:

Beef is experiencing the most challenging market conditions we’ve ever seen.