Meat prices could be heading up

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - The cost of meat is expected to go up in the next two years. That is because the meat industry has the smallest cattle herd in nearly 60 years.

Prices could go up 10% by 2013, but the increase could be more if demand increases.

At Arnold's Meats in Chicopee, however, prices have not gone up that much yet. Owner Larry Katz told 22News that he estimates the price has gone up “Maybe ten-15 cents a pound, which isn't that great right now because meat is still cheaper than it was about five years ago.”

The combination of ranchers selling off cattle to pay for other expenses, and a drought in Texas and nearby states is contributing to the small cattle herd across the U.S.