Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.06 billion pounds in December, up 5 percent from the 3.87 billion pounds produced in December 2006.

Beef production, at 2.06 billion pounds, was slightly above the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.65 million head, up 1 percent from December 2006. The average live weight was up 2 pounds from the previous year, at 1,302 pounds.

Veal production totaled 10.4 million pounds, 21 percent below December a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 61,000 head, down 11 percent from December 2006. The average live weight was down 35 pounds from last year, at 289 pounds.

Pork production totaled 1.97 billion pounds, up 10 percent from the previous year. Hog kill totaled 9.69 million head, up 9 percent from December 2006. The average live weight was up 1 pound from the previous year, at 272 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 15.4 million pounds, was down 1 percent from December 2006. Sheep slaughter totaled 229,100 head, 1 percent above last year. The average live weight was 135 pounds, down 1 pound from December a year ago.

Lamb and mutton production, at 15.4 million pounds, was down 1 percent from December 2006. Sheep slaughter totaled 229,100 head, 1 percent above last year. The average live weight was 135 pounds, down 1 pound from December a year ago.

January to December 2007 commercial red meat production was 48.7 billion pounds, up 2 percent from 2006. Accumulated beef production was up 1 percent from last year, veal was down 6 percent, pork was up 4 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 1 percent.

December 2006 contained 21 weekdays (including one holiday) and 5 Saturdays. December 2007 contained 21 weekdays (including one holiday) and 5 Saturdays.

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