Prepared and written by Jeff Swenson, DATCP Livestock and Meat Specialist. The Market Update draws information from several sources, including trade publications, radio broadcasts, agricultural news services, individuals involved in the industry as well as USDA NASS and AMS reports.
Many in the pork sector are hoping the market can catch some of beef’s upward momentum. The pork cutout value averaged $96.32 last week making it $1.49 lower although it did show some late week strength and has moved sideways this week. Cash hogs were steady to 25 cents lower with a base carcass price of $89.70/cwt last Thursday. Feeder pig prices have been lower but remain significantly higher than this time last year. The cash average 40 lb. feeder pig price last week was $108.55/head compared to $79.28/head a year ago. Cash early weaned pigs averaged $77.08/head last week versus $49.04 head the same week in 2025. Estimated USDA inspected hog harvest last week was 2.450 million, 4,000 more than the previous week and 18,000 more last year. Hog harvest and pork production year-to-date are about equal to last year’s numbers. March pork exports were the third highest on record with sales outside of the U.S. remaining a bright spot for the pork market.
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