Federal investigators are examining whether major meatpackers manipulated cattle markets amid sustained increases in beef costs.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a criminal antitrust investigation into major meatpacking companies as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to address rising beef prices and concerns over supply chain practices.
According to reporting by The Wall Street Journal, the Justice Department’s antitrust division is reviewing whether large suppliers engaged in coordinated behavior or manipulated cattle pricing. Criminal antitrust cases typically involve allegations such as price-fixing or bid-rigging.
President Donald Trump had previously called for scrutiny of the industry in November, urging a federal probe and accusing “majority foreign owned meatpackers” of distorting prices paid to ranchers while increasing costs for consumers.
Federal pricing data reflects continued upward pressure. U.S. Department of Agriculture figures show the average price of ground beef reached $6.32 per pound in September 2025, while steak averaged $12.62 per pound. More recent data indicates prices have moved into the upper $6 range for ground beef, with steak prices also trending higher.
As part of the investigation, federal officials are examining how cattle are purchased through contract systems tied to pricing benchmarks, which some ranchers argue may be vulnerable to manipulation.
The inquiry is one of several actions targeting segments of the food supply chain. Federal authorities are also reviewing pricing practices in egg production, fertilizer distribution and crop seed markets, with a reported civil case being prepared against egg producers over alleged coordination.
Administration officials have cited multiple factors contributing to rising beef prices. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins pointed to reduced cattle supply linked to prior policies and environmental conditions, stating, “We are suffering from the last administration’s literal war on cattle,” while noting that herd reductions and drought conditions have constrained production.
Rollins also highlighted increased consumer demand, citing “an 8% increase in protein and beef demand in the market” as an additional driver of higher prices.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent identified disease concerns as another contributing factor, referencing the reemergence of New World screwworm and its impact on cattle imports. He said the administration is “laser focused” on addressing the issue, describing the current market conditions as “the perfect storm” and “something we inherited.”
In parallel with the investigation, Trump has taken steps aimed at easing costs for consumers, including signing an executive order to reduce tariffs on certain imported goods, including beef.
Federal officials continue to assess whether industry practices have contributed to sustained price increases as the investigation moves forward.