Bitter cold in the U.S. Midwest and expectations of strong pork exports to South Korea pushed cash hog prices higher.
Korea is increasing imports to replace reduced domestic production. It has culled a large part of its herd to fight foot-and-mouth disease.
Packers’ margins are tight at these prices and they will likely try to pressure hogs lower.
Iowa-southern Minnesota cash hogs delivered to plants rose to $65 US per cwt. Feb. 11, up from $60-$61 Feb. 4. The U.S. pork carcass cut-out value was $88.31 Feb. 11, down from $89.17 Feb. 4.
Read Also
Stock dogs show off herding skills at Ag in Motion
Stock dogs draw a crowd at Ag in Motion. Border collies and other herding breeds are well known for the work they do on the farm.
The U.S. federal slaughter estimate was 2.156 million head, up from 2.051 million the previous week.
BISON STILL STRONG
The Canadian Bison Association said Grade A bulls in the desirable weight range were $3.50-$3.75 per pound hot hanging weight. Grade A heifers were $3.50-$3.65.
Animals older than 30 months and those outside the desirable weight range may be discounted.
Slaughter cows and bulls were $2.50.
In the live market, 2010 bulls were $2.10-$2.30 per lb. and heifers were $2-$2.10. Bulls and feeder heifers born in 2009 were $2-$2.10.
Replacement quality 2009 heifers were $1,500-$2,000 per head.
Bred cows born in 2008 were $2,000 and up.
LAMBS STEADY TO STRONGER
Ontario Stockyards reported 938 sheep and lambs and 43 goats traded Feb. 7. Light, well fed lambs sold at a premium. All others were steady. Good sheep sold steady to stronger. Goats were steady.
