Hog Prices Soar
U.S. cash hog prices and pork cutouts soared last week as the recent heat wave slowed weight gain.
Iowa-Minnesota live weights for barrows and gilts two weeks ago averaged 263.7 pounds, down 2.9 lb. from the week before and down 4.7 lb. compared to the same week last year.
Pork demand from China is also supporting prices. Hog production in China has failed to keep up with demand and pork prices have been rising, adding to inflation.
Iowa-southern Minnesota cash hogs delivered to plants were $76.50 US per cwt. July 29, up from $70 July 22. The U.S. pork carcass cut-out value was a record high $104.18 July 29, up from $98.93 July 22.
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The U.S. federal slaughter estimate was 1.99 million, down from 2.01 million the week before.
Bison Still Strong
The Canadian Bison Association said the high loonie and strong bison prices are causing buyer resistance.
Grade A bulls in the desirable weight range were $4-$4.15 per pound hot hanging weight.
Grade A heifers were $3.90-$4.10.
Older than 30 month animals and those outside the desirable weight range may be discounted.
Slaughter cows and bulls averaged $2.75.
In the live market, 2010 bulls and heifers were $2.30-$2.50 per lb.
There is strong demand for replacement females. Heifers born in 2010 are $1,800-$2,500 and 2011 bred heifers are $2,000-$3,500.
Reports indicate that quality young bred cows will be offered at $2,500 or more.
Lambs Stronger
Beaver Hill Auction in Tofield, Alta., reported 689 sheep and 373 goats sold July 25.
Wool lambs lighter than 70 lb. were $195-$210 per cwt., 70-85 lb. were $180-$205, 86-105 lb. were $175-$198 and 106 lb. and heavier were $174-$196.
Wool rams were $67-$76 per cwt. Cull ewes were $67-$76.
Hair lambs lighter than 70 lb. were $185-$202 per cwt., 70-85 lb. were $172-$196, 86-105 lb. were $165-$184 and 106 lb. and heavier were $165-$182.
Hair rams were $65-$75 per cwt. Cull ewes were $60-$70.
Good kid goats lighter than 50 lb. were $220-$267.50. Those heavier than 50 lb. were $200-$270 per cwt. Nannies were $72-$85 per cwt. Billies were $100-$135.
Ontario Stockyards Inc. reported 1,580 sheep and lambs, and 96 goats traded July 25. All classes of lambs sold stronger. Well-finished lightweight goats sold stronger. Sheep were barely steady.
