Poultry Market Intelligence Forum at IPPE 2026 Highlights Key Economic, Policy and Sustainability Developments

The Poultry Market Intelligence Forum, sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and held during the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), brought together industry experts to assess the economic outlook, policy environment and sustainability trends influencing the U.S. poultry and egg sectors.

Providing an economic overview, Brian Earnest, economist at CoBank, noted that labor conditions have largely stabilized, although labor availability remains a challenge, particularly in processing facilities and on farms. He pointed to easing feed costs and moderating inflation as positive developments, while emphasizing continued growth in poultry consumption. According to Earnest, chicken remains the fastest-growing protein, with U.S. poultry production projected to increase by around 2% in 2026 and broiler output approaching 9.4 billion birds. He also highlighted structural changes within the industry, including a shift away from commodity markets toward greater specialization, heavier birds and expanded further processing. Rising domestic demand for dark meat and improvements in bird performance were cited as factors helping producers manage labor constraints, higher capital costs and breeder supply limitations.

The policy outlook was addressed by Christian Richter, principal at The Policy Group, who described the 2026 political environment as uncertain in the lead-up to the U.S. midterm elections. Richter identified the economy, immigration, trade policy and the future of the Farm Bill as key issues affecting the poultry sector. He also pointed to ongoing concerns related to tariffs, federal debt and immigration reform, noting their potential impact on agricultural operations and workforce availability.

Sustainability and animal welfare trends were discussed by Ryan Bennett, executive director of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Poultry & Eggs and the International Poultry Welfare Alliance. Bennett highlighted the increasing influence of corporate buyers on sustainability expectations, as well as growing climate-related and insurance risks. He noted a broader industry shift toward outcomes-based animal welfare approaches that prioritize bird health, behavior and performance. According to Bennett, sustainability initiatives are increasingly moving beyond commitments and into practical implementation across the supply chain.

Overall, the Poultry Market Intelligence Forum offered attendees insights into the economic, regulatory and sustainability factors shaping the future of the U.S. poultry and egg industries, underscoring both the challenges and opportunities facing the sector in the coming years.