USDA Central States Print Butter                   03/04 13:20
AMS_1089 MARS

Butter - Central U.S.

Released on March 04, 2026

In the Central region, milk output is steady to higher, and contacts say cream 
production is strong. Class II demand is strengthening as processors are 
preparing for the spring holidays. Spot demand for cream from churns is light, 
as butter makers are using available cream from within their network to keep 
churns active. Contacts report strong demand for bulk butter. Retail sales are 
steady to higher, but contacts say food service demand is down from last year. 
Spot interest from international purchasers is strong as domestic 82 percent 
butter is being offered at lower prices than loads produced in other countries. 
Inventories of 82 percent butterfat butter are tight, and contacts say 80 
percent butterfat inventories are available, but somewhat snug.

Prices for: Central, All First Sales, F.O.B., Grade AA, Edible Butter

Basis Pricing - 80% Butterfat:               0.02-0.12


Information for the period March 2 - 6, 2026, issued weekly