Hog prices fall again
Slack demand weakened pork prices, pressuring hog prices lower.
Chicago hog futures fell, especially for contract months later in the year, sending a signal that producers should reduce breeding herds. Expectations that sow culling will add pork to the market also weighed on prices.
A dozen countries are still banning pork from Canada because of fears about the H1N1 flu virus. Bans also remain on U.S. pork.
Iowa-southern Minnesota cash hogs were at $41-$42 US June 12, slightly less than the $42 per cwt. posted June 5.
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The U.S. pork carcass cut-out value fell to $55.99 June 12, down from $56.07 June 5.
U.S. federal slaughter to June 12 was estimated at 2.075 million, down from 2.1 million the previous week. Compared to the same week last year, slaughter was up 1.3 percent.
Chinadaily.com reports that China also has a hog and pork surplus, and the government is buying pork for its reserves to support prices for farmers.
Bison cows stronger
The Canadian Bison Association said markets were mostly steady.
Grade A carcasses from youthful bulls in the desirable weight range in Canada were at $2.40-$2.65 Cdn per pound hot hanging weight. Heifers were $2.30-$2.45 per lb.
The cull cow and bull average edged higher to $1.30 per lb. on tight supply.
Weight, quality, age and delivery location affect final price.
Light lambs weaker
Ontario Stockyards reported 1,244 sheep and lambs and 176 goats traded June 8. Well-fed lambs, sheep and goats were steady.
Beaver Hill Auction in Tofield, Alta., reported 904 sheep and lambs and 88 goats traded June 8. Lambs lighter than 100 lb. fell $20 per cwt. while finished lambs were steady to higher. Ewes were mostly steady and goats were steady to higher.
Lambs lighter than 70 lb. were $100-$161 per cwt. Lambs 75 to 85 lb. were $120-$158, 86 to 105 lb. were $135-$165, and those heavier than 105 lb. were $140-$161. Rams were $53-$100 per cwt. Ewe culls were $40-$65.
Good kid goats were $170-$230. Nannies were $70-$102 per cwt. and mature billies were $120-$215.
