Wholesale demand for USDA quality graded boxed beef and effects of seasonality

This study estimates wholesale demand for pork, chicken, and quality differ entiated beef. We estimate meat retailer own- and cross-price demand elasti cities for USDA Choice and Select boxed beef Results indicate that meat ret ailers have more elastic demand for lower quality graded beef. Retail beef price has a strong positive relationship with Choice and Select boxed beef demand, and a strong negative relationship with wholesale pork and chicken demand. Seasonal analysis reveals demand for both beef quality grades becom es highly price inelastic during the summer months. The two beef quality gr ades are substitutes during the winter; however, Select beef is not a subst itute for Choice beef in the spring and summer.