As the country continues to grapple with shrinking herds, experts say prices could continue to rise through 2025 and beyond.

The claim consists of two main components: first, that the country is grappling with shrinking herds, and second, that experts predict prices could continue to rise through 2025 and beyond. Multiple recent sources confirm that U.S. Cattle inventories are at historic lows due to factors such as prolonged droughts and herd reductions following the 2021-2022 drought period.ft.comft.comUS beef prices extend surge as ranchers face thinnest herds in 70 years

This supply shortage is a primary driver of current record-high beef prices. Experts from financial institutions and agricultural analysts have forecasted that these conditions will persist, leading to continued price increases through at least 2025.axios.comaxios.comBeef costs climb to historic levels and 2026 doesn't look any betterretail-insider.comretail-insider.comBeef prices to stay high through 2025 due to supply shortages [Op-Ed] While imports may increase somewhat, domestic production constraints and strong demand maintain upward pressure on prices.newsweek.comnewsweek.comGround Beef Prices Reach Record Highs as Warning Issued

The timeframe 'through 2025 and beyond' is supported by multiple forward-looking analyses indicating ongoing supply challenges and market volatility. Alternative explanations such as tariff impacts or demand shifts are noted but do not negate the core causal link between herd size and price trends.drovers.comdrovers.comBuckle Up: Here's Why Cattle Prices Are Setting Up for Another Wild Ride in 2025 Overall, the logical connection between shrinking herds causing supply shortages and resulting in higher prices is well established by authoritative sources.

The claim accurately reflects current expert consensus and market forecasts.