The U.S. calf crop is forecasted to decline steadily from 33.18 million heads in 2024 to 30.76 million heads by 2028. Comparing to 2023, where the actual production was slightly higher, the data predicts a year-on-year decrease with significant cumulative impact over five years. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) highlights an average annual reduction, reflecting ongoing challenges in the cattle industry that may include environmental, economic, or policy pressures.

Future trends to watch for:

Impact of climate change and sustainability practices on cattle farming.
Potential shifts in consumer preferences towards plant-based or lab-grown meat alternatives.
Economic factors influencing commodity prices and agricultural policy changes.