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Picanha has become a luxury in Brazil in 2024, with prices exceeding R$120 per kilo. Shortages in supply, rising exports and high costs have created an economic scenario that challenges consumers and producers alike. As the end-of-year festivities approach, traditional barbecue faces the harsh reality of high prices.
In the popular imagination, the Barbecue is synonymous with fraternization, celebrations and a symbol of Brazilian taste.
But in 2024, beef, especially picanha, became an object of national concern.
With prices exceeding R$120 per kilo in some regions, the prime cut has become almost inaccessible for many families.
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This surge in prices has reignited economic debates and had a direct impact on the country's daily life.
According to a survey of the Correio do Estado, the price of picanha doubled compared to the previous year in markets such as Campo Grande (MS).
In September 2023, the kilo cost R$56. In November 2024, this value reached R$115,98, representing an increase of 105,41%.
Other beef cuts followed the same trend, registering significant adjustments:
- Sirloin steak rose 43,97%, from R$34,30 to R$49,38;
- The coxão mole increased 51,99%, going from R$ 30,64 to R$ 46,56;
- And ribs, although with a more moderate increase, had a 15,20% adjustment, with prices between R$22,89 and R$26,98.
Why has meat become so expensive?
Experts point out that the beef market is cyclical and sensitive to economic and climatic factors.
In recent years, the retention of cattle for breeding led to an oversupply in 2023, but now, in 2024, the shortage of finished animals for slaughter is putting pressure on prices.
According to economist Staney Barbosa Melo, this lack of supply occurs at a time of high internal and external demand, creating a challenging scenario for the consumer.
Another factor influencing the market is the increase in exports.
According to Michel Constantino, a PhD in Economics, beef sales abroad grew 30% this year, driven by the appreciation of the dollar.
This makes Brazilian meat more competitive on the international market, but reduces its availability in the country, worsening the problem for the local consumer.
Weather conditions have also played a significant role.
Periods of drought in some regions have reduced the availability of pasture, increasing breeding costs and, consequently, the prices of final products.
These challenges, combined with inflation and high operating costs, create a scenario of pressure for the entire production chain.
Impacts on families’ daily lives
The rise in the price of beef directly affects the budget of Brazilians.
Many families are replacing beef with more affordable options, such as chicken and pork, to keep costs down.
José Mário de Oliveira Barbosa, a mechanic, reported changes to the menu: “It’s impossible to eat beef every day. The solution is to save money and adapt the menu.”
Laura Mendes de Aquino, secretary, highlighted how the adjustments are affecting the end-of-year celebrations: “With these prices, the family barbecue will have to be more modest.
It doesn’t fit in the budget.” These reports reflect the reality of thousands of Brazilians who face difficulties in maintaining beef as a regular item in their meals.
In addition to individual impacts, the Broad Consumer Price Index (HICP) revealed that inflation in Campo Grande reached 8,71% in October 2024, well above the national average of 5,81%.
This data reinforces how the rise in food prices, especially meat, is putting pressure on families' cost of living.
The challenges of the production chain of the meat
According to the president of the Mato Grosso Meat Institute (Imac), Caio Penido, high meat prices are a reflection of temporary imbalances in the market.
He believes that, with the increase in the supply of animals for slaughter, prices should begin to fall in the coming months.
However, this process may take some time, depending on market conditions and the recovery of the sector.
Another challenge for the production chain is the high production costs. The appreciation of the dollar, which benefits exports, also makes inputs such as feed and medicines more expensive.
As a result, many livestock farmers face tight profit margins, which discourages the expansion of production and prolongs the effects of the shortage.
Prospects for 2025
Although experts point to a possible reduction in prices, os economic challenges, climate and logistical issues continue to represent significant barriers to market normalization.
The adaptation of consumers and producers will be essential to face this scenario.
With the end-of-year festivities approaching, many Brazilians are asking themselves: will a traditional barbecue fit into their budget?
The increase in prices not only affects beef, but also reinforces the need to seek structural solutions to stabilize food costs in the country.
Will the price of picanha fall enough for Brazilians to resume their traditional end-of-year barbecue without putting a strain on their pockets?
The same experts who draw attention to the increase in the price of meat are the same ones who advocate cuts in social programs and a reduction in the minimum wage increase. This makes it difficult. They are saboteurs of the country.
Cloth passer.. Be ashamed of yourself and stop deflecting blame to defend incompetent politicians.