The following report was prepared and written by Jeff Swenson, DATCP’s livestock and meat specialist. This report draws information from several sources, including trade publications, radio broadcasts, agricultural news services, individuals involved in the industry as well as USDA reports. Edited by Mid-West Farm Report.
Pork production in September was 3 percent lower than a year ago, with hog harvest down 2 percent. Year-to-date harvest is up 1.4 percent.
The average live weight in August was 4 pounds less than a year ago at 281 pounds. Sow harvest in September was 34,800 less than August, although year-to-date harvest is still running above 2022 levels. Last week’s harvest estimate of 2.61 million hogs was 1,000 more than the previous week and 10,000 more than a year ago.
Lean hog futures tried initially to shrug off the sharp moves lower seen in the cattle complex Monday before turning lower as well. They did manage a turn-around and stabilize by midweek.
Cash hog prices were higher Monday on the Daily Direct Afternoon hog report, up $3.85 with a weighted average of $73.42 on 2,260 hogs. The pork cutout value has shown resilience, averaging $87.97 last week for an increase of 84 cents and posted modest gains again to open this week.
Lamb
Traditional market lambs were lower last week with other classes called higher. Lamb and mutton production in September was 6 percent lower than a year ago, with harvest by head up 1 percent. Average live weights are 9 pounds less than last September, averaging 116 pounds for the month.
The increased harvest pace continues with last week’s estimate of 36,000 coming in 2,000 head higher than both the previous week and a year ago. The net carcass cutout value was $463.08 last Friday, a decrease of $7.15 on the week. The cutout value a year ago was $496.31.
This week, market lambs were lower from $150 to $182/cwt.