Pig values bottom out

GB PIG MEAT prices, which have been under downward pressure since mid-summer, appear to be bottoming out.

Spot quotes for supplies this week (commencing Aug 30) have remained unchanged, with bacon at 91-94p/kg.

But contract prices tied to the GB Euro Deadweight Adjusted Pig Price (DAPP) are continuing to slip, losing 2.84p in the w/e Aug 21, to 101.75p.

Higher EU pig meat prices should help the GB market to bounce back with Dutch, German and Belgium quotes all above 100p/kg.

The EU average of 97p/kg is now almost on a par with GB levels.  

GB cull sow prices continue to rise, and are now at 80p/kg – the highest level since exports restarted after the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak.

The Euro has continued to maintain its value, opening on Tues, Aug 31 at 67p.                 

The weaner market is yet to react to the prospect of better finished pig prices this autumn, with the Meat and Livestock Commission 30kg average easing further to £30.34/head ex-farm, some £2-£4 per pig below costs of production.