Trump Plans to Review Meat Processing Regulations

In a recent conversation with Glenn Beck, co-founder of Blaze Media, President Donald Trump expressed his commitment to considering deregulation of meat processing plants. His goal is to lower beef prices while supporting farmers and ranchers.

This discussion took place during an extensive interview Beck conducted on his radio show on Wednesday.

Trump shared his awareness of the challenges faced by independent American farmers, pointing out that a handful of large corporations dominate the meat processing sector. He said, “Four massive corporations control almost the entire meat processing industry.”

Beck brought up the issue, noting, “I didn’t plan on discussing this today. But please check out the meat processing cartel.” Trump agreed, saying, “You’re right. It’s horrible.”

Beck, who runs a ranch himself, added, “I know the struggle; it’s the processing plants. There are four of them, and I believe two aren’t even American. It seems like they’re working together.”

Trump, surprised by the farmers’ inaction, stated, “I’m astonished that ranchers and farmers haven’t stepped up. They’re incredibly smart, yet this has been an ongoing issue.”

Beck urged for assistance: “We need it. Federal regulations make it really tough to process beef. Anything you could do to help would be appreciated.”

Trump sought clarification, asking, “Is it solely about regulations?” to which Beck confirmed, indicating that many inspections were excessive.

Trump wanted to know if without these regulations, Beck could succeed in processing beef on his ranch. Beck replied, “Yes.” Trump then inquired if strong regulations might still be necessary. Beck insisted, “We need to diminish the stranglehold those processing companies have; the regulations are crushing us.”

When Trump pressed about the potential for ranchers and farmers to effectively process beef with fewer regulations, Beck replied affirmatively, “Yes, absolutely.”

Trump stated he would review this issue soon, saying, “I’ve been hearing about this problem for two decades.”

Beck humorously responded, “Free your people. Let your people go!” to which Trump remarked that addressing this could be beneficial not just for ranchers and farmers but for the country as a whole.

Beck nodded, adding, “That would indeed be good.”

Meanwhile, beef prices have been on the rise, attributed to declining cattle production in the U.S., which began before 2024. A pound of beef averaged around $5 in 2013 but has climbed to approximately $6.89 by July 2026, reflecting a significant increase of 37.8%.

On social media, Beck shared, “The president has assured me he will consider SLASHING detrimental regulations in the beef industry that contribute to high prices.” He highlighted that it’s clear the processing system is skewed against independent farmers, who face overwhelming competition from just a few corporate giants. Beck believes that if Trump is able to reshape these regulations, it would mark a substantial win for the agricultural community.