Poultry Market Intelligence Forum Explores Future of U.S. Poultry and Egg Industries
The 2026 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) recently hosted the Poultry Market Intelligence Forum, sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. The event brought together industry experts to discuss significant economic factors, political uncertainties, and evolving sustainability expectations that are shaping the U.S. poultry and egg sectors.
Economic Outlook: Insights from CoBank
Brian Earnest, an economist from CoBank, provided a comprehensive economic outlook. He highlighted that while the labor market has experienced a degree of stabilization, labor shortages remain a pressing concern, especially in processing plants and on farms. Earnest also touched upon key factors such as inflation trends, the easing of feed costs, and the persistent growth in poultry consumption.
Chicken is currently the fastest-growing protein in the market, with production anticipated to rise by 2% in 2026. It is expected that broiler output will approach 9.4 billion heads. “The poultry industry is transitioning from traditional commodity markets towards greater specialization,” Earnest remarked, citing the trend towards heavier birds, expanded further processing, and a notable increase in domestic demand for dark meat. Enhanced bird performance is proving essential for the industry as it navigates challenges like labor shortages, escalating capital costs, and breeder supply issues.
Political Landscape: The Policy Group’s Perspective
Christian Richter, principal at The Policy Group, provided attendees with a timely Washington update, characterizing the 2026 outlook as “predictably unpredictable” in light of the upcoming midterm elections. He stressed that key issues such as the economy, immigration policy, trade uncertainties, and the impending Farm Bill will significantly impact the agricultural landscape.
Richter drew attention to the ongoing challenges related to tariffs, federal debt, and immigration reform, all of which pose significant implications for agriculture and labor availability.
Sustainability and Animal Welfare Trends
Ryan Bennett, executive director of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Poultry & Eggs and the International Poultry Welfare Alliance, moderated the forum’s conclusion by presenting insights into emerging trends in sustainability and animal welfare. Bennett pointed out the increasing influence of corporate buyers and the associated climate and insurance risks that are driving the poultry industry towards an outcomes-based approach to animal welfare—focusing on bird health, behavior, and overall performance.
He acknowledged that sustainability is evolving from mere commitments to actionable strategies across the supply chain, marking a significant shift in industry practices.
Conclusion: A Forward-Looking Perspective
The Poultry Market Intelligence Forum served as a crucial platform for stakeholders to gain insight into the economic resilience, regulatory complexities, and sustainable evolution that will define the future of poultry and eggs in the United States.
Source: US Poultry & Egg Association
