A steady call for the start of the week was noted for most items in the animal protein sector. For the week ending July 17^th, 2021, cattle slaughter is forecast at 665,000 head, a 14.3 percent gain from last week due to the July 4^th holiday. This is also a 2.9 percent increase from the previous year and a 1.5 percent growth from 2019. Mixed reports have been noted in the live cattle market, with some locations showing more market-ready cattle while others continue to witness back-ups. Due to the summer heat, live cattle weights are expected at 1350 pounds, 8 pounds under last year for the respective week and two pounds lower from last week. Most pricing on the ruminant meat and bone meal as well as the…