Many proteins set to spring seasonally higher

Spring has not sprung yet, but it’s about to. The 8-percent unemployment rate will slow, but not stop, seasonal price increases between now and June. Top butts are already sharply higher, but most other beef cuts will likely see big, $1-to-$2-per-pound increases in April and May.

Choice #174 XT short loins should get above $5 for the USDA weighted average price per pound, while Select short loins will advance to about $4.50. For #180 XT boneless strips, Choice is