Washington, D.C. (RFD News) — U.S. hog numbers are slightly lower, but stronger pigs-per-litter performance is helping keep pork supplies from tightening more sharply.
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service says all hogs and pigs totaled 73.7 million head on June 1, down slightly from both last year and the previous quarter.
The breeding herd totaled 5.88 million head, down 1 percent from last year. Market hog inventory was 67.8 million head, up slightly from last year but down slightly from March.
The March-through-May pig crop totaled 33.5 million head, up slightly from 2025, even though sows farrowing fell 1 percent to 2.82 million head. Average pigs saved per litter rose to 11.87, compared with 11.75 last year.
Producers intend to farrow fewer sows this summer and fall, which could limit future expansion if productivity gains do not fully offset lower sow numbers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Hog producers should monitor farrowing intentions, pigs per litter, and market hog supplies as productivity offsets a smaller breeding herd.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialis
Pork
