New World Screwworm continues to rattle the cattle industry

With fall tailgating season getting into full swing across the U.S., there could be some shocked consumers across the country when they go to buy their favorite ground beef, hamburger patties or sandwich steaks.

Data from earlier this summer shows retail beef prices across the U.S. are up some 11% compared to summer 2024, with ground beef at an average price of $6.34 per pound, up 11.5%, and prices for uncooked beef steaks up more than 12% at an average of $11.88 per pound. So why is this?

By now, you’ve likely heard some news reporter or analyst mention the phrase “New World screwworm” but probably have little if...