CANTON, Mo. (WGEM) - For those planning on grilling out this Fourth of July, beef prices are still incredibly high. The beef prices were nearly 13% higher in May 2026 than May 2025. John Wood, the CEO of U.S. Wellness Meats in Canton, said high prices are caused by a cattle shortage. He said the U.S. has the shortest supply of cattle since 1950. For those planning on grilling this Fourth of July weekend, Wood said he recommended purchasing primal cuts instead of retail cuts.