Hog prices slightly down
Pork sales for the July 4 long weekend were disappointing.
Iowa-southern Minnesota cash hogs were $43 US per hundredweight July 2, steady with June 26.
The U.S. pork carcass cut-out value fell to $53.77 July 1 but recovered to $55 by July 2, down slightly from $55.28 June 26.
The low pork prices had packers operating at a loss.
U.S. federal slaughter to July 4 was estimated at 1.89 million, down from 2.03 million the previous week. Compared to the same week last year, slaughter was up 10.5 percent.
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Bison mixed
The Canadian Bison Association said markets were under pressure due to slow sales of prime cuts. Slaughter cows and bulls gained as more consumers turned to the barbecue.
Grade A carcasses from youthful bulls in the desirable weight range in Canada fell five cents at the bottom end of the range to $2.35-$2.65 per pount, hot hanging weight.
Heifers also lost five cents at $2.25-$2.45 per lb.
The cull cow and bull average rose 10 cents $1.40 per lb.
Weight, quality, age and delivery location affect final price.
Sheep steady
Ontario Stockyards reported 1,214 sheep and lambs and 144 goats traded June 29. All classes of sheep, lambs and goats were steady.
