Hogs steady
U.S. producers sent hogs to market on schedule, and packers were enjoying attractive operating margins.
Dealers are monitoring wholesale pork sales, which could struggle after end users buy most of the hams that are needed for Easter March 27.
However, this spring’s U.S. hog supply could be tighter as the grilling season begins, supporting prices.
Iowa-southern Minnesota hogs delivered were US$46.50-$48.50 per hundredweight Feb. 19, almost steady with $46.50-$48 Feb. 12.
U.S. hogs averaged $62.50 on a carcass basis Feb. 12, down from $63.31 Feb. 12.
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The U.S. pork cutout was $74.63 per cwt. Feb. 19, down from $76.08 Feb 12.
The estimated U.S. weekly slaughter for the week to Feb. 20 was 2.294 million, up from 2.281 million the previous week.
Slaughter was 2.274 million last year at the same time.
Bison strong
The Canadian Bison Association said Grade A bulls in the desirable weight range sold at prices up to C$6 per pound hot hanging weight. U.S. buyers are offering up to US$4.35 with returns dependent on exchange rates, quality and export costs.
Grade A heifers sold up to C$5.75. American buyers are offering US$4.10.
Animals outside the desirable buyer specifications may be discounted.
New lambs steady
Ontario Stockyard Inc. reported that 617 sheep and lambs and 21 goats sold Feb. 16.
A light run of sheep, lambs and goats sold actively with new crop lambs and goats steady. Heavy lambs traded $10 per cwt. higher and sheep sold $10-$15 per cwt. higher.
